Name: Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 bone-in (skin-on chicken thighs); Water; 1 small bunch fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, peeled and diced; 4 ribs celery with leaves, trimmed and diced; Cancale seasoning salt to taste; 1 cup pearl couscous; ⅓ cup fresh dill, roughly chopped, plus more for serving; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Dukkah (oyster crackers, or saltines for serving); Extra virgin olive oil for garnish

Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and zesty lemon creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have this soup ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: This soup reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Bone-in (skin-on chicken thighs): Adds richness and depth of flavor to the soup. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute.
Pearl couscous: Gives the soup a hearty texture. You can swap it for orzo or quinoa if desired.
Cancale seasoning salt: Adds a flavorful kick to the soup. Feel free to use your favorite seasoning salt or a combination of garlic pepper, lemon pepper, or herbes de Provence.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sauté until softened.
Season chicken thighs with Cancale seasoning salt and add to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides.
Pour in water and add parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove chicken thighs, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Add pearl couscous and simmer until cooked.
Stir in fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with Dukkah and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Helpful Tips:

For a thicker soup, add more pearl couscous.
To make it vegetarian, swap chicken thighs for chickpeas or tofu.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use homemade chicken stock for added depth of flavor.
Garnish with fresh lemon zest for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup with a side of crusty bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs will yield a more flavorful and tender result.
How can I make this soup dairy-free? Simply omit the Dukkah or use dairy-free crackers for garnish.
Can I freeze this soup? While it can be frozen, the texture of the couscous may change upon thawing.

Conclusion:

Warm up your soul with a bowl of homemade Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering comfort and flavor in every spoonful. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!