Golden Chicken Soup with Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic & Pearl Couscous

Golden Chicken Soup with Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic & Pearl Couscous

Serves

4–6

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in = extra flavor, but boneless works)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  (or 1½ tsp ground ginger)

• 1½ tsp ground turmeric

• ½ tsp black pepper (important—it activates turmeric)

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp paprika or cumin (optional, but nice)

• 6–8 cups chicken broth (low sodium)

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• ¾ cup pearl (Israeli) couscous

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional but highly recommended)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics

   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

   • Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft.

   • Add garlic and ginger; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Stir in turmeric, black pepper, salt, and paprika/cumin.

2. Build the soup

   • Add chicken and broth.

   • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

   • Cover and cook 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

3. Shred the chicken

   • Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return it to the pot.

4. Add vegetables & couscous

   • Add carrots, celery, and pearl couscous.

   • Simmer uncovered 10–12 minutes, until couscous is tender.

5. Finish

   • Stir in lemon juice.

   • Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Serve

   • Ladle into bowls and top with fresh herbs.

   • Optional drizzle of olive oil or pinch of chili flakes for glow-up energy ✨

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Helpful Tweaks

• Extra immune boost: Add a knob of fresh turmeric or a splash of apple cider vinegar

• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk

• Spicy: Add chili oil or sliced fresh chili

• Gluten-free: Swap couscous for rice or quinoa

If you want this slow cooker, Instant Pot, or super broth-forward, say the word—I’ve got you 💛