Name: Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 1 sweet onion Sweet Onion, diced; 3 medium Carrots, peeled and diced; 2 ribs Celery, diced; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; Kosher Salt and Pepper; ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning; 1½ cups Cooked, Shredded Chicken; 5 to 6 cups Chicken Stock; 1 rind Parmesan Cheese Rind; 1 cup Uncooked Pearl Couscous; 1 cup Milk or Half and Half; 1½ tablespoons Flour; 1 tablespoon Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice; 3 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, plus more for topping; Parmesan Cheese, for topping; Lemon Wedges, for spritzing

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The first time I made Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup, I was looking for a dish that would warm both my heart and my kitchen. It was a chilly winter afternoon, and as I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon some leftover chicken and couscous. Suddenly, the idea of a hearty soup struck me. I imagined a creamy base filled with tender vegetables, comforting chicken, and the delightful texture of couscous. As the ingredients simmered, the aroma filled my home, promising a cozy evening. The first spoonful brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of family meals on cold nights. This soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Keto

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

As I’ve come to love this Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup, I’ve realized it’s not only the flavors that make it special, but also the memories it creates. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a place in your recipe collection!

What Makes This Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup Special

It’s Incredibly Comforting

You know those days when you just need something warm and soothing? This Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft couscous creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a cold day.

Simple Ingredients

One of the things I love most about this soup is its simplicity. Using ingredients like carrots, celery, and onion, paired with chicken and couscous, means you can whip it up without a trip to the grocery store. It’s a great way to utilize what you have on hand!

Quick to Prepare

If you’re busy but still want a home-cooked meal, this soup is for you. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can have a delicious bowl of Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup on the table in no time!

Customizable

This recipe is easily adjustable to suit your preferences. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different protein? Swap in some turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This soup is a canvas waiting for your touches!

Great for Meal Prep

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is that it stores beautifully. Make a big batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. It’s just as delicious reheated, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

Family Friendly

Kids love it! The creamy texture and familiar flavors of chicken and couscous appeal to even the pickiest eaters in your family. It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy together.

Shopping List for Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup

When it comes to making this Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that rich and comforting flavor. Each component adds its unique touch, making the soup a harmonious combination of tastes and textures.

Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing vegetables, adding richness.
Sweet Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base to the soup.
Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and color.
Celery: Adds crunch and depth of flavor.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with its delightful aroma and taste.
Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a savory note.
Cooked, Shredded Chicken: The heart of the soup, providing protein and filling.
Chicken Stock: The base that makes the soup flavorful and hearty.
Parmesan Cheese Rind: Adds depth and umami flavor.
Uncooked Pearl Couscous: Gives a unique texture and heartiness.
Milk or Half and Half: Adds creaminess to the soup.
Flour: Helps thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: A delicious topping for serving.
Lemon Wedges: For extra zest when serving.

Recipe Directions for Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup

Making this Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup is a delightful experience that will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas. Let’s take it step by step to achieve the perfect bowl of comfort.

Start by heating the butter in a large stock pot over medium-low heat. Let it melt and begin to bubble slightly. This is the base of flavors, and you want it to be just warm enough to sauté the vegetables without browning them.
Once the butter is ready, add in the diced sweet onion, carrots, and celery. Sprinkle a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper over the veggies. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften for about five to seven minutes. You’ll want to see a nice translucency in the onions.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute. This will release the beautiful aroma of garlic, enhancing the flavor of your soup.
Now it’s time to incorporate the star of our soup: the cooked, shredded chicken. Stir it into the pot, allowing it to warm through for a couple of minutes.
Pour in five cups of chicken stock along with the parmesan rind. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about ten minutes.
Next, stir in the uncooked pearl couscous. This will cook directly in the broth and absorb all those fantastic flavors. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the couscous becomes tender, about ten to twelve minutes.
While the couscous is cooking, prepare a milk slurry. In a shaker cup, combine the milk and flour. Shake well for at least thirty seconds until the mixture is smooth.
Stream the milk slurry into the soup while stirring continuously. This will create a creamy texture as the soup simmers. Allow it to simmer for an additional five to ten minutes, letting it thicken.
After simmering, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. Stir well and taste your creation. If it needs more seasoning, add additional kosher salt and pepper to taste.
If the parmesan rind didn’t melt completely, feel free to scoop it out. You can also decide if you want to add more chicken stock depending on how thick or brothy you like your soup. The couscous will continue to soak up the liquid as it sits.
Serve immediately in bowls and garnish with extra parsley, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and a wedge of lemon for spritzing. Enjoy your hearty Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup!

Things Worth Knowing

Control the Heat: Always keep the heat at medium-low when sautéing the vegetables. This helps them soften without burning.
Thickening Tip: If you want a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer after adding the milk slurry.
Chicken Choice: You can use leftover roast chicken or even a store-bought rotisserie for convenience.
Flavor Boost: Adding extra herbs or spices can enhance the soup’s flavor profile.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some tips to help you master this Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup and make it your own!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for about three months.
Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for dipping.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.

Perfect Matches for Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup

To elevate your meal experience with Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup, consider the following serving suggestions:

Side Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crunchy baguette slices or a warm loaf, perfect for dipping.
Family Gatherings: This soup is an excellent choice for family gatherings, providing a hearty option that pleases everyone.
Lunch Delight: Enjoy it as a wholesome lunch option, easy to pack and reheat.
Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve with roasted veggies or a warm grain salad to complete the meal.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover soup in a sealed container, and it’s even better the next day!

FAQ

Absolutely! This Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of extra chicken stock if it’s thickened too much.

Yes! You can freeze Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup for up to three months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. The couscous may absorb some liquid, so you might want to add a bit of chicken stock or water while reheating.

If your Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add more chicken stock or water, a little at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning after adding more liquid, as the flavors might dilute.

While couscous gives this soup a unique texture, you can absolutely substitute it with other small pasta shapes like orzo or tiny shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta may require adjustments. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Couscous Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort to your dining table. It’s easy to make and even easier to love, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. I encourage you to give it a try and savor each spoonful of this delicious warmth. You won’t regret it!