Name: Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup pearl couscous; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

On chilly days or when you’re simply in need of a warm, cozy bowl of comfort, this Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup hits the spot like nothing else. It combines tender pieces of chicken with the chewy goodness of pearl couscous, all simmered in a savory broth filled with fresh herbs and colorful vegetables. The result is a hearty soup that soothes the soul and satisfies any appetite.

Unlike heavier stews or overly rich cream-based soups, this recipe finds a beautiful balance between light and filling. The broth is packed with flavor but doesn’t weigh you down, and the pearl couscous brings a delightful texture that traditional noodles can’t quite match. It’s a nourishing bowl that works just as well for a quick weekday meal as it does for a relaxing weekend dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

This soup is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for batch cooking and storing throughout the week. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or roast a fresh batch for a heartier flavor. The pearl couscous adds an unexpected twist that makes this dish feel a little more special than your typical chicken noodle soup. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable – add extra greens, stir in a splash of lemon juice, or spice it up with chili flakes.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use whatever type of chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken is great for convenience and adds a nice roasted flavor, while poached or grilled chicken breast keeps the soup lighter. If you’re cooking from scratch, chicken thighs bring rich, deep flavor to the broth. The key is to shred or dice it small so it mixes seamlessly with the couscous and veggies.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

The ingredients are humble, but they come together in a way that feels both comforting and elevated. Each component adds to the cozy depth of the soup, making it a favorite during any season.

Olive oil: Adds a rich base and helps sauté the veggies to release their natural sweetness.
Yellow onion: Brings a mild, slightly sweet flavor that starts the aromatics off right.
Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Celery: Provides subtle bitterness and great texture contrast.
Garlic: Offers warm, pungent depth that builds flavor in the broth.
Chicken broth: The heart of the soup, use high-quality broth for the best taste.
Cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced for a hearty and protein-rich addition.
Pearl couscous: Slightly chewy and tender, it adds a delightful mouthfeel.
Bay leaf: Infuses the soup with an earthy herbal background.
Fresh thyme: Offers a fragrant, almost lemony brightness.
Salt and pepper: Balances and lifts the overall flavor.
Fresh parsley: Stirred in at the end for color and freshness.

How To Make the Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the bay leaf and fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Couscous

Stir in the pearl couscous and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken to the pot and stir until heated through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

This Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup serves about 6 people generously. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even taking to a potluck. Serve it hot right after cooking or refrigerate and reheat throughout the week. To store, let the soup cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. If the couscous absorbs too much liquid upon sitting, just add a splash of broth when reheating.

What to Serve With Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup?

Crusty Sourdough Bread

The chewy, tangy slices are perfect for dunking and soaking up the broth.

Simple Mixed Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the warmth of the soup.

Garlic Butter Naan

Soft, buttery naan adds a savory twist and complements the soup’s herbs.

Roasted Vegetables

Try Brussels sprouts, carrots, or cauliflower for extra texture and flavor.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Melty cheese and crispy bread bring a comforting crunch.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Slightly sweet and soft, they round out the meal with extra nutrients.

Parmesan Crisps

Crunchy, salty, and easy to make, they add a fun garnish or side bite.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup, you’ll enjoy these other flavorful options:

Cajun Potato Soup with a spicy kick and creamy texture.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup for a tropical, velvety twist.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli when you need that cozy one-pot fix.
Mexican Sopa de Conchas for a tomato-rich, comforting pasta soup.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens if you’re looking for a plant-based powerhouse.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever you’re craving something warm and nourishing.

And I’d love to know if you added your own twist. Maybe you stirred in spinach or tossed in some lemon zest? Let me know in the comments!

Explore a world of health-boosting, comforting meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup is the kind of meal that makes everything feel a little better. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor and nourishment. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, feeding your family, or simply in need of a comforting dinner, this soup delivers every time. It’s a go-to for busy nights, lazy weekends, and everything in between.