Name: Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe with Beets, Cabbage, and Sour Cream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 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; 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; 3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Lemon wedges for serving

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A warm and comforting Greek Chicken Pearl Couscous Soup featuring tender chicken, pearl couscous, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors with lemon, oregano, and fresh dill. This gluten-free soup is perfect for cozy family meals or entertaining guests with a fresh twist.

The image features nine white dishes arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center is a white plate with two raw pieces of chicken. Surrounding it are white bowls containing chopped yellow onions, small orange and red diced vegetables, green chopped zucchini, and some dark red beans or olives. There is a small white dish with oil, a small container with a mix of black and white pepper, a glass measuring cup filled with a light yellow liquid, and a small scoop with uncooked grains or seeds. The overall look is clean and organized, with bright colors from the fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may seem humble, but they are the backbone of this soup. Each one plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor, texture, and bright Mediterranean notes from lemon and dill.

Ingredients You'll Need

Protein 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

Liquids and Grains

6 cups chicken stock (preferably low-sodium)
¾ cup pearl couscous

Seasonings and Garnishes

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
3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

How to Make Greek Chicken Pearl Couscous Soup

Prepare the vegetables and chicken: Finely dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, slice the celery stalks, and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Sauté the aromatics and chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring occasionally until they are lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.

Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in the 6 cups of chicken stock, then add the bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the pearl couscous: Stir in the ¾ cup pearl couscous and simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Finish with lemon and seasoning: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve with garnishes: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh dill. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Pearl Couscous Soup

A bowl of warm soup with pearl couscous, carrots, herbs, and chicken pieces, garnished with crumbled feta and dill.

Garnishes

Top each bowl with crumbled feta and chopped fresh dill. Serve with lemon wedges on the side so diners can add brightness to taste. The feta adds a salty tang that pairs beautifully with the lemon and herbs.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread or simple Greek-style sides like a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, pair with olives or a plate of grilled vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the soup in shallow bowls and finish each serving with a small mound of feta and a dill sprig. Offer extra lemon wedges and a small bowl of additional crumbled feta for guests who want more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If using crumbled feta as a garnish, consider storing extra feta separately and adding it when serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to omit the crumbled feta before freezing as it can change texture. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on low heat to avoid overcooking the pearl couscous. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Once hot, add fresh crumbled feta and dill to revive its bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes — substitute vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add beans or extra vegetables for protein and heartiness.

Is pearl couscous interchangeable with other pasta?

Yes. You can substitute pearl couscous with regular couscous or orzo, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I omit the feta for a dairy-free version?

Yes. Omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The lemon and oregano still provide plenty of flavor.

Can I prep any steps ahead of time?

Yes — chop the vegetables and cut the chicken a day ahead. The soup also reheats well, and flavors often improve after resting overnight.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about this Greek Chicken Pearl Couscous Soup. It’s warm, bright, and packed with Mediterranean flavors from lemon, oregano, and fresh dill. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this soup is approachable, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every fragrant, comforting spoonful!

Authentic Ukrainian Borscht Recipe with Beets, Cabbage, and Sour Cream Recipe