Save Bring the vibrant and refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen with this Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup. This comforting dish balances a bright, citrusy broth with tender poultry and the delightful, chewy texture of toasted pearl couscous. It is a hearty yet zesty meal that promises to warm you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Save The secret to this soup's depth lies in the combination of fresh aromatics and the tangy zip of lemon juice added right at the end. By garnishing with fresh dill and crumbled feta, you transform a simple chicken soup into a sophisticated Greek-inspired feast.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 350 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)
- 120 g (3/4 cup) pearl couscous
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 100 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just opaque.
- Step 4
- Pour in the chicken stock, add the bay leaf and oregano. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Step 5
- Stir in the pearl couscous. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Discard the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crumbled feta and fresh dill, if using. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a richer broth, use homemade chicken stock. If you prefer even more succulence, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs, which remain juicy even after simmering.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily add more greens by stirring in a handful of baby spinach during the last two minutes of cooking. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken, use vegetable stock, and add chickpeas for protein.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this soup alongside crusty bread to make it a complete meal. The extra lemon wedges are essential for those who love an extra hit of acidity in their broth.
Save Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the wholesome ingredients and vibrant zest in every spoonful!
Recipe Guide
- → What makes this Greek-style soup unique?
The combination of pearl couscous instead of traditional rice or noodles creates a satisfying texture, while fresh lemon juice and zest add bright acidity that balances the rich chicken broth and savory feta topping.
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors actually improve after refrigerating overnight. Store the feta and fresh dill separately and add them just before serving for the best texture and taste.
- → What can I use instead of pearl couscous?
Orzo pasta, rice, or even small pasta shapes work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly as these may cook faster or slower than pearl couscous.
- → Is this soup freezer-friendly?
The soup freezes well for up to 3 months without the feta and dill. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding fresh garnishes before serving.
- → How do I prevent the couscous from getting mushy?
Cook the couscous until just tender, as it will continue softening in the hot broth. If making ahead, slightly undercook it and add extra liquid when reheating.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless thighs stay juicier during cooking and add extra richness to the broth. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they're fully cooked through.