Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12.3 oz), 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
Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)
- 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
Finishing Touches
- 3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, slice the celery stalks, and mince the garlic cloves to have everything ready for cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables and Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, add the chicken pieces and sauté until they turn white and start cooking through, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the 6 cups of chicken stock, then add the bay leaf and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Stir in the pearl couscous and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Season and Add Lemon: Once the couscous and chicken are cooked, add the zest and juice of 1 large lemon to the soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and remove the bay leaf.
- Serve with Garnishes: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh dill. Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness as desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the soup.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or yogurt just before serving.
- Fresh dill can be substituted with fresh parsley if preferred.
- Ensure the pearl couscous is fully cooked for the best texture; avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free