As the rain pattered against my window, I found myself longing for a bowl of something warm and nourishing. That’s when my Easy Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup came to life, a delightful remedy for dreary days. This dish is more than just a soup; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, featuring rich homemade stock and a zesty twist of lemon that dances on your taste buds. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. Not only is it nourishing and satisfying, but it also leaves you feeling accomplished without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Are you ready to discover how this simple soup can transform your rainy day into a cozy culinary experience?

Why is this soup so comforting?

Heartwarming Simplicity: This Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor, making it perfect for any home cook.
Nourishing Goodness: With rich homemade stock and tender chicken, you’re treating yourself to nourishing comfort in every spoonful.
Zesty Twist: The fresh lemon adds a delightful brightness, elevating the traditional chicken soup experience to something uniquely refreshing.
Versatile Variety: Feel free to customize it; add seasonal veggies or swap couscous for rice based on your pantry, ensuring every bowl meets your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or hosting friends, it’s a dish that warms hearts and delights palates, creating memorable moments.
For more comforting meals, check out our Lemon Butter Chicken and One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup.

Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for this nourishing bowl of comfort.

For the Stock

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Provides rich flavor and a hearty base for the soup’s stock. Do not substitute with chicken breasts for greater depth of flavor.
Water – Essential for creating the stock. Ensure chicken is submerged by at least one inch.
Fresh parsley – Adds aroma and lightness to the stock. Use a small bunch, include stems for maximum flavor extraction.

For the Soup

Olive oil – Used for sautéing vegetables. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor.
Yellow onion – Contributes sweetness and depth. Peeled and diced.
Celery (ribs with leaves) – Adds a fresh, vegetal note. Trimmed and diced.
Cancale seasoning salt – Enhances overall flavor. Can be replaced with garlic pepper, lemon pepper, or herbes de Provence.
Pearl couscous – Provides texture and body to the soup. Can be replaced with rice; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Fresh dill – Imparts a fresh, herbal flavor. Use roughly chopped; additional for garnish.
Lemon (juiced) – Brightens the soup with acidity. Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.

For Serving

Dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines – Suggested for garnish, adding crunch when serving.
Extra virgin olive oil (for garnish) – Adds richness to the final presentation.

This blend of ingredients will surely inspire you to create a heartwarming bowl of Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup that nourishes the soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Stock
In a large pot, place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and season them generously with salt. Add a small bunch of fresh parsley, then cover the chicken with water, ensuring it’s submerged by at least one inch. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Strain the Stock
Once the stock has simmered and filled your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Strain the liquid into a large bowl, discarding the parsley to keep the broth clear. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding the meat, discarding the bones as you go. This shredded chicken will form the hearty base of your Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and trimmed, diced celery, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the Cancale seasoning salt, adjusting to your taste as it melds with the lovely sweetness of the onions, infusing the soup with flavor.

Step 4: Cook Couscous
Stir in the pearl couscous to the pot, cooking for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Pour the previously strained stock back into the pot, along with the shredded chicken. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it again to a simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed those delightful flavors.

Step 5: Finish the Soup
With your soup nearing completion, stir in roughly chopped fresh dill and the juice of one lemon. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the zesty lemon essence throughout the broth. This is the moment to taste and adjust seasonings, ensuring that your Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup is just right.

Step 6: Serve
It’s time to ladle your nourishing Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup into warm bowls. For the finishing touch, garnish with dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines for added crunch. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall richness, and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top adds a pop of color, making each bowl a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

What to Serve with Easy Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup

Nothing completes a soothing bowl of soup quite like thoughtful pairings that elevate the experience to the next level.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, fresh bread adds a satisfying crunch while soaking up the delicious broth.
Simple Side Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing flavors beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a caramelized sweetness, complementing the lemony notes in the soup and adding texture.
Garlic Knots: These fluffy, buttery delights are irresistibly good and make for an excellent finger food to accompany each sip.
Herbed Rice: For a heartier side, consider simmering herbed rice which will absorb the soup’s flavors and add extra nutrition.
Lemonade: A glass of bright, zesty lemonade or a lemon-infused iced tea will enhance the citrus elements of the soup elegantly.
Cheese Platter: Introduce a variety of cheeses, dates, and nuts to the table, creating an inviting setup that encourages leisurely enjoyment of your meal.
Fruit Sorbet: To cleanse the palate, a light fruit sorbet provides a refreshing sweet finish that echoes the soup’s zesty brightness.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to restore the original consistency.

Leftover Tips: If you know you won’t finish it within the three-day fridge timeframe, freezing is advisable to save the delightful flavors and textures of this comforting soup.

Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup Variations

Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and texture with these exciting variations!

Rice Option: Substitute pearl couscous with rice for a gluten-free alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s perfectly tender.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and heartiness. These little gems not only add color but also a touch of natural sweetness.
Frozen Peas: If fresh peas aren’t available, frozen peas work wonders! Toss them in towards the end of cooking to keep their vibrant color and sweet bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that will warm your soul while you sip on this comforting soup.
Herb Swap: No dill on hand? Fresh thyme or basil can make a fragrant substitution, adding a unique twist to your soup’s overall flavor profile.
Creamy Texture: For a richer consistency, consider stirring in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving. This creates a luscious broth that feels even more indulgent.
Lemon Zest: Amplify the lemony brightness by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest, highlighting the citrus flavor without additional acidity.
Dukkah Alternative: Instead of dukkah, try a sprinkle of smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for a different layer of flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Embrace the joy of customization in your kitchen! For more hearty dishes, take a look at my comforting Lemon Butter Chicken or delightful One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup is fantastic for meal prep, making it ideal for busy nights. You can prepare the stock and shred the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the broth in the refrigerator, ensuring an airtight seal to maintain freshness. Additionally, chop your vegetables (onion and celery) ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat the stock, add the sautéed vegetables and couscous, and simmer until the couscous is tender. By prepping these components ahead of time, you’ll enjoy a comforting homemade soup that is just as delicious with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup

Use Quality Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; they provide the richest flavor for your homemade stock and shouldn’t be replaced with chicken breasts.
Allow Proper Time: Start the stock early; let it simmer for two hours to extract maximum flavor, especially if you’re cooking from home.
Adjust Seasoning as You Go: Taste and adjust the salt and seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure your Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup is perfectly balanced.
Mind the Cooking Time: When adding pearl couscous, keep an eye on the simmering time; it should only take about 15 minutes to be tender without becoming mushy.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like diced carrots or peas; just remember to adjust their cooking times to retain their color and texture.

Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I highly recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They provide a deeper, heartier taste compared to chicken breasts, which can be dry and less flavorful in soups.

How should I store leftover Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure the soup has cooled to room temperature before sealing to lock in freshness.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely, it’s a great idea! Let the Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup cool completely. Then, transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

How can I adjust the flavor if it’s too salty?
If you find your soup a bit too salty, you can balance it out by adding additional water or a low-sodium chicken broth to dilute the saltiness. You might also add some diced potatoes or other vegetables to absorb some of the salt and enhance the soup’s texture.

What ingredients can I substitute or add to this soup?
The more the merrier! You can swap pearl couscous for rice (just adjust the cooking time accordingly). Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like carrots or spinach. Even frozen peas work wonderfully when added towards the end of cooking.

Is this soup pet-friendly?
While it’s nourishing for humans, be cautious with giving it to pets. Avoid any seasoning components like salt and pepper. If you want to share, prepare a small batch of plain shredded chicken without added ingredients for your furry friends.

Comforting Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup for Cozy Days

This Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup is a warm, nourishing bowl capturing the essence of comfort with rich homemade stock and a zesty twist of lemon.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Stock

4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Provides rich flavor and a hearty base for the soup's stock. Do not substitute with chicken breasts for greater depth of flavor.
8 cups water Essential for creating the stock. Ensure chicken is submerged by at least one inch.
1 bunch fresh parsley Adds aroma and lightness to the stock. Use a small bunch, include stems for maximum flavor extraction.

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing vegetables. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor.
1 medium yellow onion Contributes sweetness and depth. Peeled and diced.
3 stalks celery (ribs with leaves) Adds a fresh, vegetal note. Trimmed and diced.
2 teaspoons Cancale seasoning salt Enhances overall flavor. Can be replaced with garlic pepper, lemon pepper, or herbes de Provence.
1 cup pearl couscous Provides texture and body to the soup. Can be replaced with rice; adjust cooking time accordingly.
1 cup fresh dill Imparts a fresh, herbal flavor. Use roughly chopped; additional for garnish.
1 large lemon (juiced) Brightens the soup with acidity. Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
to taste salt and pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.

For Serving

as desired Dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines Suggested for garnish, adding crunch when serving.
as desired tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for garnish) Adds richness to the final presentation.

Equipment

large pot

Method

Directions

In a large pot, place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and season them generously with salt. Add a small bunch of fresh parsley, then cover the chicken with water, ensuring it’s submerged by at least one inch. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for 2 hours.
Once the stock has simmered and filled your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Strain the liquid into a large bowl, discarding the parsley to keep the broth clear. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding the meat, discarding the bones as you go.
In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and trimmed, diced celery, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Sprinkle in the Cancale seasoning salt, adjusting to your taste as it melds with the lovely sweetness of the onions.
Stir in the pearl couscous, cooking for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it. Pour the previously strained stock back into the pot, along with the shredded chicken. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it again to a simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed those delightful flavors.
Stir in roughly chopped fresh dill and the juice of one lemon. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the zesty lemon essence throughout the broth. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Ladle your nourishing Lemon Chicken Couscous Soup into warm bowls. Garnish with dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines for added crunch, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 26gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary.

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