I’ve been a soup lover my entire life. Tony would tell you that it’s true because he’s the one stuck eating my delicious soup recipes that I bust out weekly.
This chicken soup recipe came to me after I came down with the WORST cold ever. I was on the verge of getting better, then all of a sudden I took a turn for the worst and spent an entire weekend sneezing, coughing and barely able to breathe.
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Cold-fighting chicken soup
I know MANY of you have been struggling with cold and flu season this year, so I thought why not make a cold-fighting chicken soup recipe that you can come back to year after year.
Whenever I’m sick I love a good, soul soothing soup. In fact, did you know that soup can actually help to reduce the length of your cold? Amazing news, because I bet this will be one of your favorite soups of all time.
Normally, I love making my healing vegetarian curry whenever I’m sick, but ever since I’ve made this chicken soup recipe I’ve been OBSESSED with how delicious, flavorful and hearty it is. THIS AIN’T NO CAMPBELL’S PEOPLE. IT’S LIKE PROGRESSO ON CRACK. ALSO BETTER THAN PANERA.
And yes, caps were necessary there — I really needed to get my point across about how damn good this chicken soup is.
Ingredients in the best chicken soup recipe
The best part isn’t just how delicious this chicken soup is, but also how wonderful the anti-inflammatory, cold-fighting ingredients are.
- Ginger: Great for digestion and a powerful anti-inflammatory agent to use in recipes.
- Garlic: Truly the best when you’re sick. Garlic is full of anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why we use 6 cloves of garlic in this soup. That’s right, you’re going to sick this cold’s ass.
- Turmeric: Super trendy and very good for you. Best when consumed with a black pepper to help for optimal absorption. This recipe calls for fresh turmeric (if you can find it).
- Chicken: We’re packin’ this recipe with protein too — and guess what? The chicken actually cooks in the soup broth, leaving it tender and making it easy for you!
- Fresh herbs: Rosemary & thyme add additional flavor in this recipe.
- Pearl (or Israeli) Couscous: Besides the veggies, the couscous is really the star because it helps to thicken the broth and keep the soup hearty. You’ll want to use pearl couscous (also labeled Israeli couscous in stores) in the recipe. It just provides the perfect texture for the soup. This is what pearl couscous looks like. I also know that they sell it at most Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.
More healthy soup recipes to try
Paleo Coconut Chicken Sweet Potato Noodle Soup
Butternut Squash Green Chile Chicken Soup
Golden Turmeric Chickpea Chicken soup
Healing Thai Butternut Squash Lentil Soup (with a slow cooker option!)
Vegan White Bean & Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Watch me make the best chicken soup recipe
If you make this chicken soup recipe, be sure to tag #ambitiouskitchen on Instagram or leave a comment and rate the recipe below! Thank you — I appreciate it. xo.
The Best Chicken Soup You'll Ever Eat
The BEST chicken soup you'll ever eat is the best homemade nourishing healthy soup when you're feeling under the weather. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, turmeric, garlic. This is the BEST CHICKEN SOUP RECIPE EVER!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated turmeric (or 1 teaspoon ground turmeric)
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1 teaspoon freshly chopped rosemary
- 1 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme, stems removed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup pearl or Israeli couscous
- 2/3 cup frozen peas (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
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Place a large dutch oven or pot over medium high heat and add in oil. Once oil is hot, add in garlic, onion, carrots and celery; cook for a few minutes until onion becomes translucent.
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Next add in grated ginger and grated turmeric. Saute for 30 seconds to let the spices cook a bit, then add in chicken broth, chicken breast, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper.
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Bring soup to a boil, then stir in couscous. You’ll want the chicken to be covered by the broth so make sure you stir them down to the bottom.
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Reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
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Once chicken is cooked, remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a cutting board to shred with two forks. Add chicken back to pot then stir in frozen peas. If you find that you don't have enough broth, feel free to add in another cup. Everyone likes their soup differently. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary. Enjoy.
Recipe Notes
To make vegetarian or vegan: Use vegetarian broth and sub 1 can of drained chickpeas for chicken.
To make the soup gluten free: You could use a gluten free couscous if you can find it, or try 3/4 cup quinoa. The cook time will remain the same.
Nutrition
2,528 comments
Do you have a suggestion for a noodle version of this soup? I have fond memories of chicken noodle soup when I was a kid and versions without noodles are sometimes just not the same. Thanks!
The couscous really has a noodle-like feel to this soup 🙂 but feel free to add in noodles in place of the couscous. I would add them in the last 8-10 minutes though so they don’t get mushy.
Couscous is just a spherical noodle. Same ingredients.
Love it!
hi your soup looks so yummy can you tell me what Israel couscous??
i never heard of it thank you sandie
Hi Sandie! It looks like this 🙂 It’s also called pearl couscous!
I thought couscous was a grain.
Couscous typically is a grain. But pearl, or Israeli couscous is not really couscous but made from the same ingredients as pasta. Israelis invented it as a kid-friendly type of food but it’s caught on and delicious in it’s own right.
Actually, couscous is not a grain. It is a tiny pasta made with semolina and water.
Technically, semolina is the end product of the durum (hardest type of wheat) wheat once it’s been milled and grounded. True pasta is made from a durum wheat. Therefore, it’s a grain.
No. It’s not a grain. It’s a pasta. Technical or not.
Skinny Pasta rice shape ..keto & Paleo friendly. (Konjac rice)
Hey, Grammy10, THANK you for the Keto option for the couscous!! I’ll have to look it up.
Hi Carol! You could also enjoy the soup as-is without any grains 🙂 It will still be flavorful and delicious.
Monique- you have wonderful recipes, a terrific personality and great looks- c oils you refrain from using swear words in your blog, pls?
I couldn’t find any swears….???
I think she may be talking about when you use the word “damn” when describing how good the soup is. At least that’s the only word I see that may offend some people. Love your post! I will be trying this soup very soon. Thank you for sharing!
Oh and when you use the word “ass” when talking about the garlic. Sorry I missed that one earlier.
I LOVE this recipe and am sad I didn’t try it much sooner! So easy and perfect for a cozy nourishing soup.
Curious, any tips or tricks for keeping this for leftovers? I went to reheat the next day and the couscous had soaked up all the broth. I just added more water but was curious if there’s a better method.
Thanks! Will definitely be making again
So glad you loved this one! I haven’t had an issue with the soup being overly thick after re-heating, but I think your best bet is to add some more chicken broth the next day.
I have a chicken & rice recipe I love but had the same issue with the rice soaking up all the broth. My solution was to cook and store the rice separately. Then when i get ready to serve, just put some in a bowl and then the soup on top to mix in. I think it would work the same for this recipe. I am going to make it this weekend! Looking forward to trying it!
That’s a great method 🙂 Hope you enjoyed it, Kellie!
Pasts tends to do that, swell up and absorb pretty much everything
So I boil the couscous on its own and add as needed.
Works like a charm
That’s a great way to do it! 🙂
🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️
Angel, really? If you find swear words so offensive that you would request the author to not use them you really should just find recipes elsewhere. This is who she is. She is as real as it gets in the most beautiful way, and you are right, she is very kind which is why she probably hasn’t replied to you, so I am going to tell you what she probably wants to say but is too polite to…get over it and go think about why it is that you are do damn sensitive to something as innocuous as a word.
I so agree with Allie! What the F🤪Angel! You are an idiot!
To the moderator. Can you get rid of this part of the comment? Completely useless. Offensive. And has nothing to do with the recipe.
I agree! Please just rate the recipe.
You lose interest reading comments that don’t pertain to it,
Thank you!
Pehaps you should reread for comprehension before calling someone else an idiot.
Please note Angel wasn’t offended….it was Elsie!!!!!!! Read the comments again!
It’s the grown up instincts in her objection to swear words. I agree the vulgarity is unpleasant. Parents nowadays aren’t teaching kids respect like our parents did. Or maybe parents in this era don’t attach worthless rules to worthless words any more
Great recipe! Consider barley instead of couscous if you cant tolerate wheat.
Absolutely right, Allie. Words are only meant to communicate something. They are not inherently good or bad. The intention of the speaker, to hurt or demean, carry the good or the bad. Monique had no such intentions. Elise and Angel, get off your high horse(s) and get a life.
I truly never comment on FB, but if you can’t tolerate the rather tame “curse” words that have been found with a fine-toothed comb you should simply stop reading the posts. For heavens sake we’re talking recipes here not reading about a cure for cancer!! Stop acting like your opinion is the only thing important in the world.
All words are made up.
We attach meaning to them. Damn has a meaning and is an expressive term. I am making this recipe tonight and was fascinated by this thread. Please don’t refrain from being yourself. It’s a beautiful thing. Use your words however you feel and thank you so much for taking time to share this recipe!!
Allie, You go Gurl, This recipe is Great, the person who makes it is real, that’s the best type of person to have around, (Damn, Ass, or what ever)
Angel
Does not say she’s offended. She replies to previous poster who doesnt understand why original poster was offended. Re read
Befor looking like an “ass”!
I love expressive and colorful language!
Even some of the nuns in my high school days used this language every now and again!
Please, let’s be serious, she was just trying to make a point !
Aren’t we being a little to sensitive here, she was trying to prove a point !
🙄🙄🙄🙄
SOmetimes you have to overlook some things that may be offensive to you. She’s didn’t use the Lords name in vain.
Some people!
This looks damn good to me.
If you don’t like what she’s saying, read another blog. Pretty simple.
Can we please just stick to the damn recipe. OOPS MY BAD. 🙂 Loved the recipe. I eat soup everyday. Not much of a chicken soup fan but this recipe might just make me a big fan.
This truly is the best chicken soup I’ve ever made, and I’m known for my soups. Thank you!
Aw thank you! I’m SO happy to hear that 🥰
Please… this is NOT profanity!!! Ridiculous!
Lol…..
Can this be made in a crockpot if I add the couscous at the last minute?
I think that should work just fine!
I made this with wide egg noodles :). I simmered mine covered for a good while–maybe 45-60 minutes? When I took the chicken out to shred I added the noodles and replaced the lid. By the time I was ready to put the chicken back in the noodles were ready.
This recipe looks amazing…I am making it in a few hours for my sick husband…can o use dried ginger, thyme and rosemary? Or will it not be the same?
Great question! I was wondering the same about the dried thyme and rosemary.
If you use dried herbs I think the rule of thumb is to use half as much that is called for. Dried herbs are stronger. I’m going to try it out when I make this soup. I’m going to use just a few pinches of each herb as I find both dried thyme and dried rosemary to be especially strong.
Thanks for the egg noodle option Jessie. My husband is sick and this recipe will do the trick! And the egg noodles make me happy – fond memories.
Keep up the great work and inspiration in your Ambitious Kitchen — it makes my kitchen more enjoyable!
I did not have any fresh herbs and did not feel going out shopping as I was knocked down with the flu, so I used ginger powder and turmeric, dried thyme and rosemary. It tasted delicious. I added a tea spoon of cayenne pepper.
I made it with quinoa as I am gluten free. This is really the best chicken soup I had.
Thank you
I’m trying to give this 5 starts, but it won’t let me go higher than 4. It is a terrific soup. I get compliments on it every time I take it to work. I wanted to ask if it freezes well. Thanks
Can’t wait to try this. It’s already really close to how I make try my chicken soup, but can’t wait to try it with couscous, yum!
Amazing! And yes the couscous is delicious in here 🙂 Enjoy!
Delicious recipe, one of my new favourites! Now I’ll leave this here just because I loved it in my soup, I love the earthy tones of this soup, but I felt it needed a little more. So I squeezed half a lemon into the soup after it was done cooking and let me tell you it brings a really nice freshness to the soup! I’m just putting this as a little recommendation if anyone would like to try it! Not trying to bash the original recipe, just a little something extra! 😊 thanks for the great soup!
Oooh that’s a great idea to add the squeeze of lemon! I’ll have to try that next time 🙂 Thanks, Bradley!
Where has this recipe been all my life?? This soup is so flavorful and lovely! I made it late one night and knew I’d be eating it for a few days, so I made it without the couscous originally and add in a couple tablespoons each time I reheat the soup on the stove so the couscous cooks in the simmering soup. So delish! The couscous is like little pearls of happiness! I also added a squeeze of lemon at the end to brighten everything up.
Little pearls of happiness! Omg so true! I’m SO glad you’re loving it, Katie. Thanks for the sweet comment 🙂
This sounds delicious! I am going to make this over the weekend. Thank you!
It’s so delicious! Hope you love it, Lynda 🙂
This soup looks SO hearty!! I’ve never been a huge lover of soup, but it looks so easy to make!
It is! Hearty, easy and delicious 🙂
Got the ingredients at lunch (hard for me to splurge on fresh herbs but always have ginger and turmeric on hand, weird I know!), will add a salad and a panini and call it dinner! YAYE!
The best!!
I bought a huge bag of Quinoa at Costco. What I have found is Quinoa spoils very quickly AFTER it is cooked. You can’t leave it in refer like you can rice or couscous. More than a couple of days and it is toast. I just cook less to begin with.
We eat soup all yr around. I love the herbs you have added, and it makes good sense that those you have used are sooo effective. I am an herbalist with a hubby who has a heart problem, so we eat very healthy, as much as we can.
The only addition I will do is add some dark meat for more flavor. A back and some thigh.
I’m glad you two liked all of the herbs in here! I eat soup year round, too (it’s the best!)
You may find that you don’t even need the salad or sandwich! This soup is so hearty that all I serve with it is some crusty French bread slices and oil for dipping.
I just made this with the quinoa since I’m gluten free. Delicious! Thanks for all your great recipes. Btw, you looking stunning on your wedding day.
Quinoa sounds delicious in here! So glad you’ve been enjoying these recipes, and thank you so much 🙂
UNREAL! I read “chicken noodle soup” and got insane flavor profiles all over the place!! What!!?? I love any reason to use ginger and turmeric, and omg those little pearls are so cute! I LOVE THIS SOUP!!!! It was a ton of fun to make!
SO happy to hear that, Denise! And yes the little pearls are just like delicious little noodles 🙂
Such a delicious recipe! I used chicken thigh instead of breast and added fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten it up a bit.
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Chicken thigh sounds great in here, too – very flavorful 🙂
DELICIOUS soup! I love the addition of couscous! It was super easy to make and and my toddler also approves!
Isn’t the couscous amazing?? Glad this one is kiddo-approved, too!
Hi Monique, This soup was sooo DELICIOUS! I made it last night and it was hearty and flavorful. The couscous was a great addition. You know it’s good when everyone goes up for a second bowl. Thank you for the recipe!
Hi Dana! So happy to hear that 🙂 I’ve been loving the couscous in this one too. Glad everyone enjoyed!
Will make this tonight!
But- my issue with starch is that it soaks up the broth. Perhaps make couscous and add to each bowl?? Without having it sit in fridge with soup!
I didn’t have an issue with the couscous soaking up too much broth! But you could always add cooked couscous to each bowl if you prefer.
This was FANTASTIC. I did add couscous separate. I needed this to last 3-4 days.
Wow this is a phenomenal recipe. My hubby said he loved it and totally loved the aroma. I used 2. Chicken thighs as I like dark meat. :). Thank you!
Perfect!! So happy you both loved it 🙂 I love chicken thighs in here too!
I made this yesterday and it is SO FLAVORFUL! Loved it, as did my sometimes picky husband. The couscous is a great idea, no soggy noodles. I did find it to be too thick for me and next time would try reducing the couscous to maybe 1/3-1/2 cup. I also just gently poached the chicken in the broth until “almost done”, then removed it to cut it up. Meanwhile, I added the couscous on the boil. Put the chicken back in at the end. Delicious, thank you.
Amazing!! So happy that you both enjoyed 🙂 You can definitely reduce the couscous if you’d like, or increase the liquid!
Hi! I’m dying to try this soup, but would also like to cook the couscous separately and add them together when serving. Did this change how much liquid you used? I don’t want to ruin such a beautiful looking soup recipe. Can’t rate yet, but it looks like a 5/5!
Yes, I ruined my delicious soup with the couscous. I admit I just added whatever couscous I had in the cupboard so it prob wasn’t the kind suggested. The soup was a pot of mush when I was done. It was my fault completely but I’m going to keep the soup separate from the couscous next time or just use less/quinoa/rice maybe, gun shy on the couscous. It was tasty though.
I’ve made this soup a dozen times. I’d echo the comments about couscous having potential to routine it – I’d recommend adding it per serving at end.
Also, the more neutral name for this couscous isn’t Israeli- but Middle Eastern as it features in many North African and Levantine dishes. Careful of culinary oppression through appropriation !
I’m so glad you love this one 🙂 Totally fine to add the couscous at the end or use less of it or more broth. And thanks for the note. We include the names of both pearl & Israeli couscous in the blog so that people know what to pick up at the store; many packages say “Israeli couscous.” But we totally agree with what you’re saying!
The ISRAELI couscous was awesome!!
Yay! So glad you are loving this recipe ❤️🙂
Stop the ‘appropriation’ BS. It is called Israeli couscous because of that size being popular in Israeli Cuisine. You’re so brainwashed you can’t just accept things without making an issue where no issue exists. Build a bridge and get over it already, you lemming
Excellente !! J’ai remplacé les petits pois par des fèves edamames !!
I’ve been trying to incorporate more turmeric into my diet. This sounds like a great way to do it!
Love turmeric in pretty much everything!!
Am I able to just omit the couscous altogether? Never liked any version of it.
This soup was amazing! I too am a soup addict and am always on the hunt for new recipes. This will definitely be making it into my usual rotation! Looking forward to what little leftovers are left!
So happy to hear that! This is definitely my new go-to. Glad you enjoyed!
Just seeing the rating scale. Duh!
🙂 🙂
AMAZING! My whole family loves it!
So happy to hear that!! 🙂
I just made this soup…super flavour! I will def make it again. Just one thing. The chicken was really chewy. Like not in a good way. When I make this again, I’m going to buy a roasted chicken & put that in. Then I’m guaranteed moist chicken.
Hi Raye! Adding a roasted chicken would work well in here. It sounds like your chicken may have overcooked a bit, which can happen depending on the size. I always use organic (tends to be less chewy) and sometimes like to use chicken thighs (they have lots of flavor!)
Has anyone made this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely love the flavors in this and so easy to make. The only down fall is grating the tumeric left my shellac nails yellows. So, now I have a neon french manicure. Ha!
Isn’t it delish?! And you’re totally right about the nails haha it happens to me all the time!
Your post says pin this recipe…your healing chicken soup…but it won’t pin! Help!
Hi Vicky! If you hover over the pin you’ll see a black button with a white “pin” appear in the upper right corner – click it to pin! 🙂
Do you have the sodium content for this soup?
I actually don’t calculate sodium content!
LOVED this recipe!! And my family loved it too!
Amazing!! So happy to hear that!
I am a soup lover…can eat it all day every day! Just made this and you are correct…a favorite chicken soup. The fresh rosemary, thyme and ginger makes a difference.
Soup is my fav too! So glad you liked this one 🙂
Loved this recipe! I added about a tsp of cayenne to compliment the ginger and it worked out really well.
YUM love that!
Any chance you know how to make this in an instant pot?? I still new at it and not sure how to time things unless I’m following a recipe.
I don’t have an Instant Pot so I’m not 100% sure!
I made this in my instant pot tonight. I used 4 boneless chicken thighs, cut up in chunks. Added everything including the couscous. Cooked manual 10 minutes, quick release. Was delicious!
Perfect! So glad your Instant Pot worked out for this 🙂
You could Saute “garlic, onion, carrots and celery; cook for a few minutes until onion becomes translucent.
Next add in grated ginger and grated turmeric. Saute for 30 seconds to let the spices cook a bit” then add everything else and do as Lori did.
Really liked this recipe.
I used chicken thighs with the bones. I removed the bones when I shredded the chicken.
Great flavor and loved the couscous.
I made this last week and it was so delicious!! The perfect comfort food for colder temps with so much flavour 🙂
Hi Monique, I absolutely loved this soup! I did make it in a Slow Cooker. I sauteed the onions, carrots and celery first, then stirred the ginger and turmeric in. I transferred that to the Slow Cooker along with the chicken, stock and herbs. I added the peas and couscous near the end of the cooking time. It was perfect! Thanks!
Amazing! I’m happy the slow cooker worked out well 🙂
How long did you cook in slow cooker and what temp? How long for peas and couscous
I have this soup simmering on the stove right now. It smells & looks delicious!!!!
Hope you loved this Maureen!!
Made this for dinner tonight, and SOOOOO good!!!!!!
Amazing!! So happy to hear that!
I had a total thyroidectomy on Thursday due to Graves disease and made this on Sunday. It was so tasty and comforting. I would normally pair this with a cornbread muffin. Do you have any suggestions for an alternative?
I toasted a piece of baguette to eat with the soup.
This was the best soup I have ever made, thank you!
So happy to hear that Lisa!
Everyone in my family loved this, including my hard to cook for 17 and 15 year old daughter and son and my wife. Thank you for your generosity with your work. I’ll book mark this recipe.
I’m so glad to hear that Evan! Cooking for a whole family can definitely be tough. Happy you found this recipe!
My boyfriend says “I think this is the best chicken soup I’ve ever had.”
I used thighs and added a bit of lemon juice. So good!
Amazing!! Glad you both enjoyed 🙂
This looks so yummy!
Does the couscous need to simmer in the pot for 20 to 30 minutes, or should it be added later? Also, if you use chickpeas instead of chicken, will you still need to simmer it for 20 to 30 minutes? Or is less time required?
Yes you’ll want the couscous to simmer in the pot until it’s fully cooked, about 20 minutes. Chickpeas don’t need to be cooked so you can add them in with just a few minutes left if you’d like!
This soup is amazing and I love the couscous! It is helping our colds to boot. Thank you!
Isn’t the couscous amazing? Hope this cures all of the colds!
I don’t often comment on recipes but I made this tonight and it is SO GOOD. Chicken soup is normally bland- but this had just the right amount of amazing flavor– I love the addition of ginger. Thanks for sharing, I’m going to be passing this one around!!
Amazing!! So happy to hear that. I had to jazz up “traditional” chicken soup with some fun spices 🙂
Thank you for the recipe! The soup was delicious! I’ve loved everything I’ve made of yours and have yet to be disappointed. Thanks for your hard work and delicious and healthy recipes! My whole family thanks you!!
So delicious! And it is easy to make! Thanks!
Yes!! You’re welcome 🙂
The title of this recipe is very accurate. This is absolutely the best chicken soup I’ve ever eaten. I’ve made one batch and I’m ready to make several more!
YES so good!! I’m glad you love it!
I’ve made this recipe twice now and it is absolutely delicious. I did cut back on the ginger as I didn’t want it to overpower the soup.
Perfect! This one’s great for adjusting spices to your liking 🙂
I can’t find the pearl couscous here in Canada. Wondering if I can substitute it for pearl barley??
I would just double check the cooking time on the package, but that will probably work!
I came here to find this exact comment as its impossible to find here lol did the pearl barley work???
I have failed at every attempt at making soup in the past. This soup was fantastic & so easy to make, I did add a few squeezes of lemon and I will cut back on the couscous because it did soak up too much liquid but how amazing!!! I can now say that I can make soup!!!
Amazing!! Lemon sounds delicious in here. I’m so glad you found this recipe!
This was delicious! I made it with dried herbs, freshly made broth, and white rice cooked separately. I like the fact that I added ginger and turmeric. Loved it! This is going to be a must!
OH-MY-GOD —- this is the MOST delicious soup I have ever made. We are coming into winter in Aus that this really did the trick! The combination of thyme+rosemary with ginger was a little strange but it actually works (next time I think I will reduce the ginger a little though – not my wifes favorite ingredient). I also added green beans in (just cause I love them)!
keep the soup coming please 🙂
Perfect timing for winter in Aus!! So glad you guys loved this one 🙂 Green beans sound delicious! We’re heading into summer here, but search “soup” on my site for some delicious options 🙂
I made this wonderful soup with orzo n garbanzo beans. It was fine. Thanks! Feeling better already.
Delicious! Glad you’re feeling better 🙂
Hands down, the BEST chicken soup I’ve ever made. Had to sub celery salt for celery, and so I omitted the salt, and used shell pasta as I had no couscous…it has raised my son and myself from our sickbeds, and no side effects (other than “needing” seconds). Thank you so much for this wonderful recipe!
Amazing! Pasta sounds delicious in here. I’m glad it cured you and your son, too! <3
About how much garlic would the 6 cloves be equivalent to if I wanted to use pre-minced garlic from the store? Hoping to make this recipe tonight! Very excited considering the rainy weather we’ve been having in Colorado. Thanks so much for sharing!
The pre-minced garlic should have a little conversion on the side of the jar! I believe it’s about 1 or 1 1/2 teaspoons for 1 clove? Hope you love this one – perfect for rainy weather!
I love this soup and have made it about 3 dozen times!! I usually make it with chicken but have been wanting to try the chickpea option. Do I put the chickpeas in when the chicken would go in or do they go in towards the end? Do I need to adjust the cooking time at all? Thank you for all of your amazing recipes!! You are amazing!
So happy you love it! For chickpeas you can do either! the cooking time will remain the same 🙂
This recipe sounds fantastic! I can’t wait to try it! Do you know if this soup freezes well, even with the couscous added?
It’s seriously amazing! I think it will freeze just fine with the couscous 🙂
Did you end up freezing it? How did it work?
This soup was absolutely delicious!! Best soup I’ve ever made. Thanks for the recipe. 😊
So happy to hear that!!
If you were to freeze the soup into freezer bags, would you just cook everything up to the point before adding the broth? Freeze the cooked ingredients then add the broth and continue from frozen from there? 🙂
Thinking of how to add this to my crock pot bag or freezer stash for friends 🙂
Thanking you in advance! 🙂
I haven’t tried freezing this in freezer bags but I would suggest making the whole recipe (broth included) and then letting it cool completely before adding it to the bags!
This is the best chicken soup recipe. So much flavour and easy as well. Others I have tried were very bland and I had given up trying to make chicken soup. Now that I have tried this one, I will definitely be making this again.
So glad you love this one!! It’s my go-to 🙂 super flavorful and perfect year-round.
I made this delicious soup last week and finished it up tonight. One of the best chicken soups I have ever had. If you make the soup don’t change a thing.
So happy to hear that!!
Sounds good I will try it. I like trying thing. Can this soup be made in a crock pot ?I will let you know how it came out
Hope you love this one!
I made this soup over the weekend and loved it very much 🙂 I loved the ingredients, the herbs and spices that gave the soup depth, taste and that gorgeous color from the Tumeric made it so tasty. All other chicken soup ingredients that I’ve had are quite bland and tasteless. This is the best chicken soup I’ve ever had, its easy to make and will be my new winter soup. Thank you so much for your recipe 🙂
So happy to hear that Mereana!! This is my go-to soup year-round 🙂
I saw that s recipe on Pinterest when I wasn’t looking for a chicken soup, but the images had me drooling! I pinned it immediately! I’m not one of those pinners who pins and forgets, I pin and try. As of right now it’s simmering in my pot. I didn’t have any chicken broth so I put in one cup of Pinot Grigio and 5 cups water then letting it simmer for a bit longer. It smells divine. I’m definitely subscribing to your blog and checking out all the other recipes you have.
I hope you loved this one – let me know how the pinot grigio worked out (I’ve never tried that!)
My ass is going to love some of this damned good soup! 🙂
My ass loved this damned good soup! 🙂
Hahaha glad to hear it!!
Thank you for this recipe, found it on Pinterest. I love chicken soup, weather I have a cold or not. I want to try this soup with adding mushrooms and celery instead of snow peas. May add an sweat and earthy flavor also I love mushrooms. I don’t know what it is about mushrooms and chicken soup, but for me but it’s the bomb combination. :). But do you think mushrooms would go the spices in your recipe???
I’m also gluten and diary free (plus a lot of other food allergies) so it’s nice to find a soup that doesn’t require noodles or cream that seams filling and satisfying.
I’m Canadian by the way and always looking for new recopies, that keep me healthy and satisfied for snacks and meals for work which is a physically demanding job. I don’t want my allergies to interrupt my day. I will try making this recipe.
Mushrooms would be delicious in here! Hope you get a chance to make it (and love it as much as I do!!)
Best chicken soup I ever slapped a lip around. Good job
Haha YES glad you liked it!
This is the best soup I have ever made. I used all dried herbs and spices and it came out just wonderful. Love the couscous and the ease of not having to cook the chicken separately. This is a keeper!!!!
Perfect!! So happy you loved this one 🙂
How much dried (not fresh) ginger turmeric rosemary thyme can I use instead of fresh?
I would probably do 1 teaspoon ground ginger & ground turmeric, and then 1/2 teaspoon rosemary & thyme!
This soup is amazing! So glad I came across it. Can’t wait to make it again. Saw my primary care dr yesterday and she is always suggesting turmeric for my diet. Was happy to tell her about this soup. Only issue I had was with the pearl cous cous expanding so it wasn’t like soup after the first day. Any suggestions?
Yes, you can cook it separately in chicken broth and add to soup each time you dish a bowl
Perfect timing for some healthy soup! Hmmm you could try using a bit more liquid or a bit less cous cous next time. Once it’s warmed up after being in the fridge it thins out a bit too 🙂
Fantastic soup! I was able to use herbs from my garden. It is a keeper of a recipe!!!
Amazing! Fresh herbs are the best.
Absolutely delicious soup!!
Hi,
Have you ever tried Thai rice noodles instead of couscous?
I haven’t! Let me know if you do 🙂
i made this soup this morning. I followed the recipe exactly, and it is incredible. I will take it to work for lunches this week….thank you so much for sharing the recipe
I’m glad you love it as much as I do! Perfect for lunch.
Great Soup and easy to make
I’m glad you liked it!
It’s 87 degrees here today. I wasn’t looking for a chicken soup recipe. I have a wonderful go to recipe that I use often. But when I saw the ingredient list, I knew I had to make this. My house smells amazing right now!!! Thank you for sharing! I have a new go to!!
Love it!! This one is delicious even when it’s hot out (I make it year-round!)
Holy smokes this soup is BOMB! You did the damn thing!
Haha thanks Dani! Love this one.
OMG! I take pride in my cooking of soups, you have giving me my new favorite chicken soup. Totally amazing. I did add leeks and tri colored couscous. Thank you by the way for introducing me to couscous. Who’d of thought. Oh yeah, you did. Awesome.
So happy to hear that Cindy! The couscous is a game changer in this 🙂 love the additions of leeks, too!
I made this the other day, and OMG- SO GOOD. And so easy!! Thank you!
Wonderful!! Glad you loved this Hanna 🙂
The most amazing soup. I added some zucchini sautéed in garlic granules instead of peas at the end and added a squeeze of lemon. Incredible!!!
I’m SO happy you loved it, Sarah! Love the idea of adding zucchini and lemon 🙂
This recipe is absolutely AMAZING. I was looking for a chicken soup recipe that was “different” and this fit the bill. My goodness, I could bathe in this (tho I promise I won’t) 🙂
Thank you for posting this.
I’m so glad you found this one! My absolute favorite 🙂 (no judgment if you bathe in it!)
I cannot wait to make this! If I make this with rice (gf), what do you think the cook time would be? My hubby does not like quinoa & I could not find gf couscous.
Probably about 20 minutes if you use regular white rice. Enjoy!
In the process of making this now!!! Can not wait to eat it! Looks and smells so delicious! Only substitution I made was organic gluten free red quinoa for the couscous.
Perfect!! Hope you’re loving it 🙂
Hi Monique – I’ve made many of your recipes and turned to this one for a friend of mine that is losing his battle with cancer. Hoping that it might be soothing to him and his roommate sent me this note, thought you would like to see :
Subject: #1 Hit!
Text: Dear Terri,
Your soup is a #1 hit with James. He ate almost all of it throughout last night. He wants to call you and thank you for it. He really enjoyed it a whole lot! I don’t think there’s very much left, if any!
Dear Terri,
I had the last of the soup last night with James, and it was absolutely yummy! Nice and hardy and delicious.
Thanks again! I hear you had a nice chat with James.
Love, ****** Bo
Hi Terri! Sending over all of the love to you and your friend James. I’m so glad that this soup was a hit with him and his roommate. I hope it gave him a cozy hug in a bowl! Thanks so much for sharing this with me – I’ll be thinking of you both!
Don’t think I’ve ever left a comment on a Pinterest recipe before, but this begs comment! I just made a double batch to share, and I’m so glad there’s plenty for me, too! I added lemon zest and juice and a big handful of fresh parsley at the end for brightness. Super tasty!
Amazing! Thanks for your note Laura 🙂 Love the addition of lemon + parsley. So good!
I am making it for the second time in two weeks. My family LOVED it! The broth is very flavorful, making the soup so satisfying! Thanks!
Amazing! So happy to hear that Michele.
This is just insanely good. My family of 5 inhaled it and said the only problem with it is that I didn’t double the recipe!! That is a huge compliment given that we are super picky about soup. I added more broth than the recipe called for–10 cups altogether–and after my noodles cooked the broth/filling ratio made it more like a stew than a soup. Next time I will either pre-cook the noodles or add even more broth. The spices in this are the stars. Such depth of flavor! My kids were amused that everything turned yellow from the turmeric :). Thanks for a great keeper recipe!
So happy to hear that Jessi! I definitely recommend doubling 😉 Glad the whole family enjoyed!
Delicious soup! Great flavors. Nice twist on traditional chicken soup. Added extra cup of broth. Also I used dried coriander and a bit of curry powder instead of turmeric. (I realized my spice cabinet lacked tumeric while making the soup… oops!) Maybe this changed the intended flavor of the soup but I really enjoyed it.
Glad you enjoyed! The different spices may have changed the flavor a bit, but this recipe is great for customizing 🙂
Do I need to cook the couscous before adding to the boiling pot?
Nope! It will cook with everything in the pot.
not that great and definitely not kid approved
Sorry to hear that, Amy! It’s one of the most popular recipes on my site, so I’m not sure what could have gone wrong. Hope you find some other recipes here that you love!
Made this tonight and doubled the recipe – turned out just like the photos and was absolutely delicious. Thanks for sharing!
So happy to hear that Jo!
I made this twice. I think you could reduce the turmeric a tad — that stuff really stains and was too heavy for the dish in my opinion. But very good stuff. I used rice noodles (cook separately) which was a good accompaniment.
Ah, so I have to eat my own words (good for soup!). I am making this again tonight, and I realized I didn’t read the turmeric correctly LOL I’d been putting 1 tablespoon of it in there! haha Sigh. Not tonight I won’t 🙂
If you’re using ground you only need 1 tsp! Glad you enjoyed it with rice noodles, too 🙂
I made a double the recipe batch every week. This is by far my favorite. Thanks again.
Amazing! Happy to hear that Georgina 🙂
Best freakin damn soup I’ve ever tasted! Everyone loved it! The flavor was totally ass kicking! Thank you for a great recipe! This will be my “go to” chicken soup recipe all winter!
Happy to hear that Jan! It’s my absolute go-to – enjoy all winter 🙂
Delish! My grandson needs gluten-free foods so I subbed quinoa for couscous. Will make it with couscous for next potluck. My granddaughter (8) helped and was so thrilled to have contributed to a new family fave!
Perfect! So glad your granddaughter was able to help too 🙂 Love that!
Really GREAT soup! And made the house smell incredible!
One tip…if you are using fresh turmeric, be sure to wear gloves when you grate it. I hadn’t used fresh before and stained my manicure, my tea towel and my white handled paring knife! Worth it though…fantastic recipe. 🙂
Glad you loved it! And yes good tip – the color is intense. You could try using baking soda on any stains, and I’ve also heard that putting things in the sun helps the turmeric come out!
Holy crap soooo good! I used a turmeric couscous that I thought would be PERFECT in this recipe and I was not wrong! This soup is so good and full of antiinflammatory foods (garlic, turmeric, ginger). This is now my go-to chicken soup with flu season fast approaching!
Turmeric couscous sounds delicious! And yes – tons of anti-inflammatories in here. Perfect all winter 🙂
hi monique, i’m looking to make a slow cooker version of this with rotisserie chicken. because the chicken is already cooked, and i’m worried about leaving the couscous in too long, how long would you recommend in the slow cooker? should i make the soup to allow flavors to combine, but leave the couscous, peas, and chicken out until the end? thanks very much.
Hi! Yes, leave all couscous, peas and chicken out, until 10-20 minutes before, then add and allow couscous to cook. Enjoy!
Great soup, it’s one of the best ones I have ever had, thanks for the recipe.
So happy to hear that!
This was by far the best soup I have ever had/made. This will be on the top of my list from now on.
I’m so glad!
I replaced the frozen peas for frozen corn and added two balls of frozen spinach at the end of cooking time..
Truly the best soup ever. Even my husband doesn’t like soup and really like this one.
I made this soup tonight and doubled the recipe. My only wish was that I would have cooked the couscous separately! The soup got very thick and the spices got watered down when I added about 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth to thin it down. I will definitely try this recipe again making the couscous separately! Thanks for the recipe! 🤗
Sorry to hear that, Amy! I’ve never had that issue, but you could also try adding the couscous later. Glad you enjoyed it regardless!
I plan to try this recipe since I am always looking to improve on my chicken soup.
I would like to say that using a word like “crack” as a good thing is so wrong. It is not a good way to describe something that should be good. I have never used crack and I doubt you have either. What I do know about it is not good so let’s use a different descriptor for your soup.
SOOOOOOOO good. The perfect meal after a freezing cold fall soccer game. I cooked a whole chicken in the crockpot while we were away and added that when I added the broth. Just perfect. Thank you!
Perfect! So glad you found this one!
YOWZA!! You weren’t kidding. This is the best homemade chicken soup recipe I have ever attempted. Usually, the results from other recipes tend to be a bit blah — even when I have gone through the effort of making homemade chicken stock. I think the combination of turmeric and ginger – along with the amount of garlic used – really takes this to another level. I made a batch last night thinking I might freeze some for later — but just might finish it all over the course of the next few days!! Will definitely be making this again. Thank you for sharing this. PS — I thought your post was perfect and entertaining! Not sure what all the fuss was about in some of the recent comments.
So happy to hear that, Ken! The flavors in this one are what make it. And thank you 🙂 just sharing my true self here!
This was my first time making soup. This recipe is delicious and easy to follow. My family loved it! 🥣
your site is my go-to recipe book when I need to find a good recipe quick and I know it’s going to be good.
Thank you for sharing! 💙
I’m so glad, Georgia! Thank you for following along 🙂
This was so delicious! And I’m not even a big soup lover. It was a hit all around. Thank you! You’ve inspired me. 😘 FIRST time making soup actually, too!
So happy to hear that, Irene! Congrats on your first homemade soup 🙂
Made your soup tonight. So good! The only thing I did not add was Rosemary. Not one of my favorite spices. Thank you for the recipe.
Perfect! This one is great for adapting to your taste preference. Glad you enjoyed!
I have not tried your soup as yet but already know from the ingredients that it will be wonderful. One vegetable that we always use (in Canada) in our chicken soup to add some flavour is chopped turnip.
As for the comments on the swear words, some people need to find something better to do with their time or go to another site if they find this offensive. Obviously they don’t watch much TV or listen to modern music.
Delicious! Hope you get a chance to love this one. And very true 😉 there’s always an option to skip down to the recipe!
Looks delish, thanks for the recipe! I am going to make this soup tomorrow. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find pearl couscous at my local shop and bought orzo instead. Is it a good substitute?
Orzo should be just fine!
Very very good thank you!!!!!
Glad you liked it!
A FULL cup of couscous makes this soup like porridge. I used 1/2 cup second time I made this and it was perfect !
Strange! I haven’t had the porridge issue, but glad the 1/2 cup worked out well.
Hi, probably a stupid question, but do you put the chicken breat in whole uncooked first? Or do I brown off the chicken before putting into the dutch oven? Thanks.
Not a dumb question! You put it in whole, uncooked 🙂 check out the video, too, for some helpful visuals!
Wonderful soup, Monique!! Loved the tumeric and grated ginger in it. Made it with quick cooking barley because that is what I had, and will do that again. Thanks for this delicious recipe!
I’m so glad you liked it! Love the idea of barley in here.
I made this recipe recently for the in-laws and everyone loved it! It smelled so good and was very flavorful.
I used quinoa, maybe a little too much quinoa,instead of couscous since I don’t eat gluten and it came out great although more stew like:) They chuckled when I told them what the recipe was called. Thank you!
Delicious! Glad everyone loved it (even with a little extra quinoa)
This is the tastiest chicken soup I’ve ever made. It is truly delicious. I used an organic chicken to make my own chicken bone broth and use the meat from it. This made 12 cups broth so I doubled the recipe to make a big pot. Everyone loves it. Thanks for sharing.
Homemade bone broth sounds delicious! Glad everyone loved it.
This recipe is absolutely AMAZING. I was looking for a chicken soup recipe that was
“different” and this fit the bill. My goodness, I could bathe in this (tho I promise I won’t) Thank you for posting this.
So glad you found this one! I could literally bathe in it too. The best!
Ummmm all I can say is WOW 😍😍😍😍 🎉
This is one of the BEST (not even exaggerating!) chicken soups I’ve EVER had…and those who know me best will tell you I’m particular about chicken soup. The only thing I subbed out was chicken thighs instead of breast because yum!
I’ll be making this again and again and again.
I’m so glad you loved this one, Victoria! Great idea to use chicken thighs, too.
i made this and it was YUMMO!! so good and not super heavy!!
Yes! Glad you liked it!
I’m sure this soup tastes delicious. All of your recipes that I have tried have been an absolute success!
It’s amazing! Hope you get a chance to try this one 🙂
Wow, best chicken soup by far that I ever have ever eaten. I will never go back to the old bland way of making chicken soup. My house smelled so good last night! Since we are gluten free, I added pre cooked rice towards the end and is worked great. I can’t wait to try more of your recipes, thanks!
So glad you loved it! And great idea with the rice. People have made this with quinoa, too, and said it was delicious 🙂
This soup is amazing!!! My husband and I just devoured it. I left out the salt, pulverized some of it and fed it to my 8 month old daughter. She loved it too!!!
I just made this soup to help me to try to get rid of a cold which is lingering on. I used orzo instead of couscous as that was what was in the cupboard and added a handful of spinach at the end to try to give my body every nutrient going! In all honesty I couldn’t fully taste it but had a nice warming feeling from it which felt like a hug in a bowl. My husband loved it. Great recipe, thank you for sharing.
Orzo sounds perfect in here! Love the addition of spinach, too. Glad you and your husband enjoyed – feel better soon!
Should I alter the recipe if I was unable to find pearl cous cous at Whole Foods? I just have regular cous cous available.
Hi Katy! You can use 1 cup of pasta instead or regular couscous will also work. It should be about the same for timing.
Just made this soup tonight and it really is the best damn chicken soup! Thanks so much for the recipe! Will def be making again.
Yes! Glad you loved it!
Wow, what a spectacular comforting soup. It’s perfect for cozying up at home during this cold rainy weekend. I just made a batch to bring to a potluck because I know everyone will love it as much as I do. Thanks for sharing your recipe.
Absolutely! I hope everyone loves it 🙂
Great flavor, but it came out as more of a stew. I’ll probably add 2 additional cups of broth next time, but the flavor was outstanding, and the texture was great!
I haven’t had the issue of it coming out super thick, but more broth should do the trick! Glad you enjoyed 🙂
Absolutely fantastic. So flavorful and hearty and better than any other chicken soup. Comforting and an absolute keeper. Thank you so much for sharing!!
Glad you loved this one Brittney! My absolute favorite 🙂
Okay, so I have never been a big soup person but have always despised chicken noodle soup! However, this recipe! Oh my god, I am a convert! I found your recipe when my partner and father were both sick with the flu and I wanted to make chicken soup but one that I would like too – and I love this one! Packed full of amazing healthy ingredients and soooo flavourful! Thank you thank you thank you 💘
Hi Shannon! So happy you found this recipe – it’s a game changer for chicken noodle soup (and all soups really). Glad you both loved it and that it brought some comfort! <3
Wow, this soup is amazing, so good.
Glad you like it!
Can you make this recipe in a slow cooker and get a good outcome?
Also…if you’re using dried ingredients…for ginger..what would the measurements be?
I haven’t tried it in the slow cooker, but I’m sure it would work. Just don’t add the couscous until 10-15 minutes before serving. I would use 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger if you are using dry ingredients.
Best chicken soup I’ve ever had, seriously. The only thing I changed was how I cooked the chicken. I sprinkled salt and pepper on boneless chicken thighs, and browned them in a cast iron skillet before throwing them into the soup. They were super tender and pulled apart easily. Other than that, I followed your recipe exactly, and it. Was. Amazing. Thank you!!!
Perfect! Love that idea. Glad you loved this one!!
This soup is a bomb!!. However I used pearled barley instead of couscous or are they the same? Listen, l came across this recipe on Pinterest while l was searching for some new recipe to present to my family at Christmas dinner like l always do. I always try the recipe ahead of time to see how it will turn out. The first day l prepared the soup was on Monday, 12/ 24, Xmas eve. Per my family request, l cooked it again on Xmas day. I am going to the store now as l am writing this to purchase Rosemary/ thyme to prepare it three consecutive days. I think l am in trouble. This soup has turned my family to “ Your Chicken soup fan”. To be honest with you, this is the best Chicken soup l have ever eaten. You are right, go girl, you got me.
Pearled barley and pearled couscous are likely very similar! So happy to hear you + the family are hooked, just like I am 🙂 A new go-to for winter!
Just made this after seeing it on your insta stories! Trying to fight off the beginnings of a cold before vacation and this was delicious!! Will definitely be making again!
Perfect! Hope this helped <3
Love, love, loved the flavor! And even happier knowing that it is so healthy. I used quinoa, and replaced the peas with string beans. I also added pepper to help the turmeric absorb better. I will definitely make this again, and again. Thank you 🙂
Glad those little swaps worked out! This one’s great for customizing 🙂
I absolutely love this soup! I like that it still has that nostalgic chicken noodle soup taste but the pearl couscous, ginger, and turmeric make it more health packed and flavorful! Next time I make it I think I will use 1/2 cup couscous instead of 1 cup just because I love the broth so much. Thank you for another wonderful recipe!
Absolutely! Comforting just like the soup you know (but with some extra goodness). Glad you love it!
This is very high in Carbs, is there anyway we can make it with lower carb and keep the taste?
Thanks,
You can probably use less couscous or leave it out.
I absolutely love this soup!! Wondering if there are any instructions for making this in the instant pot?! Can’t wait to make this again soon, especially during the cold winter months. Thanks so much for the delicious recipes! Absolutely love this blog.
So glad you love it! I haven’t made it in an instant pot, so I’m not 100% sure. Let me know if you do try it!
This really is the best chicken soup ever! I’ve told several people about it already and I’m getting ready to make it again. The use of cous cous is genius!
I’m so happy you love it!
Quite literally the best chicken soup I have ever eaten. Coming off a cold this week and making this – really nothing better. So much flavor and packed with good for you stuff. Thanks Monique! <3
This should do the trick 🙂 so happy you found this one!
Made this tonight and it was delicious!
So happy to hear that!
Have never LOVED ‘plain old chicken noodle soup’, but LOVE this recipe, as does my whole family 😀 . Used bone broth (that I made in my Instant pot) for an extra kick of inflammatory/immunity benefit this cold season. Thanks for sharing
Amazing! I’m so glad. Bone broth sounds delicious in here.
Hi Monique! This soup was delicious!!
My picky 10 year old loved it!
Is this soup freezable? And how long will it stay good in the fridge?
With a long winter ahead of us it would be great to have easy access and not have to make it when you are actually sick 😔
Hi Stephanie! Glad you guys loved it 🙂 Yes this soup should freeze well, and should stay good in the fridge for around 4 days.
Felt the need to comment this is one of the staple weekly recipes in our house. It is amazingly delicious, super easy to make, and keeps well, so we can have hot dinners throughout the week when we are too busy to cook, but over takeout or salads.
So happy to hear that, Emily! Love making this for dinner for the week.
The soup came out a bit too gingery. Is the ginger flavor supposed to be so pronounced? How do I tone it down? Otherwise love the easiness of this recipe and that it is specific to sickness.
How do I tone down the ginger flavor? It came out very gingery from the ginger root. Otherwise I love the easiness of the process and that it is good for sickness which I am currently fighting a bad cold.
Feel free to use less or omit it. Glad you enjoyed and hope you’re feeling better!
Hi there,
Dying to try your recipe for this nourishing looking soup. Will wait until the weather in NZ cools a bit first. I am not a fan of couscous at all, so wondering if barley would work just as well? It would probably take a little longer to cook than couscous, would I need to adjust the stock ratio?
Many thanks
Nikki
Hi! Barley would work well. I think the cooking time can remain the same. You can always add additional broth if necessary. Enjoy!
Do you have a chicken broth you recommend?
I just get a low sodium chicken broth from Whole Foods! I think the brand is Pacific 🙂
Made this to help get over a cold! Its soooo good!
So glad you loved it! Hope you’re feeling better 🙂
I never post comments but this time I feel compelled to say thank you, as this soup recipe was delicious and I wish I had doubled it so that we could all have leftovers today. I cooked German Spelt Noodles (broad, wavy, gluten-friendly noodle) separately until they were almost cooked through before adding them to the soup near the end. I used chicken thighs as I find they add more flavour to soups and curries.
Everyone loved it!
Perfect! So happy to hear that.
I’ve made this a dozen times so far and it’s always just fantastic. Whenever we get a rotisserie for dinner I’ll throw the carcass into our crock pot and make a 24hr bone broth which becomes the base for this amazing soup. I use De Cecco Acini Di Pepe noodles (tiny ball pasta) that my kids think are the best things ever. I’ve never cared for chicken soup and even I can’t get enough of this stuff. My wife loves soup so this is an easy win for dinner along with a little warm fresh bread – mmmmm. Thanks!!
Perfect!! So happy you all love this one.
Do you think I could substitute the couscous with Farro?
Thanks!
That should work!
So I don’t usually comment because food to one may be delicious and the next not so much… it is an individual palate we all possess. I followed this to a T except I did not have thyme or couscous. So I substituted italian seasoning and southern dumpling (flat noodles). Oh and i had some leek I needed to use so I added that. But man this soup is awesome! Thank you for sharing! If is my go to for chicken soup! Flavorful, healthy, easy. Wow!
Perfect swaps! Thanks for your comment Kelly 🙂
just made this and used barley instead of couscous cause i has it in the pantry lol but it was delicious oh my goodness i reccommended this so just so many people..monique you killed it again 🙂
Perfect!! Thanks Emily 🙂
Wondering if you or anyone has done this in the crockpot? When would you add the couscous, etc?
Hi Monique,
I have been making chicken soup, the old fashion way for, for 35 years. Finally a recipe that makes sense, proven by the taste. However, I did tweak it a bit, no ginger and I added the usual fresh dill and parsley. I was wondering why you were using skinless boneless breast? To enjoy some healthy collagen I always use a whole chicken and add extra thighs and neck bones. Not only does this add so much more flavor, but includes the dark meat which is more tender, flavorful and better for you, not to mention the added health benefits of using the skin and bones. Just wondering!
HI Gail! I use the boneless, skinless chicken breast just for ease and my personal preference. I love using chicken thighs in soups, too! This one’s great for customizing to your preferences, too 🙂
This is, hands-down, the best chicken soup I’ve ever made!!! The only thing I did different was reducing the ginger to 1/2 TBS and the ground turmeric to 1/2 TSP. I was afraid these flavors would be too strong. This is the only chicken soup I will make from now on! Thanks for the recipe!
Amazing!! So happy to hear that Rhonda. Perfect for winter!
Love this chicken soup! Made this several times now. I use rotisserie chicken and it’s perfect. Won’t make it any other way!
Our family love this soup! It’s tasty, easy to make, non time consuming, delicious and wholesome. A definite keeper in our recipe file for sure! Yummy!
Sitting here eating my first bowl of this soup. Its bloody amazing!
Gluten free thanks to quinoa and I cooked a double batch so I can freeze a few for later. Definitely adding this recipe to my recipe book 🤤
Perfect!! Glad you love it 🙂
This looks so good! I’ve never had ginger and turmeric in a chicken soup. I bet it tastes good and has great health benefits!
Absolutely! The ginger adds amazing flavor in here. Hope you get a chance to try it!
Thanks for sharing! Do you use the couscous in any other recipes?
Yes! Try this one or this one next 🙂 They’re both delicious.
Very delicious just one question! I cooled the soup before storing but the couscous still soaked up most of the broth. Any suggestions on how to store the soup to keep some broth?
Glad you enjoyed! Hmmm you could try using a bit more liquid or a bit less couscous next time. Once it’s warmed up after being in the fridge it thins out a bit too!
Yes, I agree with the soup’s name. This is one tasty soup, I love the flavor!
AMAZING. If you are reading this, MAKE THIS SOUP. You’re probably thinking “It’s just chicken soup.” No. You are wrong. It’s SO GOOD. It will cure any cold, heal a sad soul, hug you. I don’t consider myself to be a soup person, but it’s delicious. And somehow the Israeli couscous makes it even better. I’ll never use noodles – or another chicken soup recipe – ever.
Thanks Suzie!! So happy you loved this one. It’s my absolute go-to for a reason!
Hi, I made this soup last night and it was amazing. My husband and I just loved it. The fresh ginger and turmeric really made it. Thank you.
Hi Liz! So happy to hear that 🙂 this is my all-time favorite!
I made this tonight for my family. It was an instant hit. My ‘adopted’ daughter wanted the recipe to take back to her Dad. This will be on my cooking rotation regularly.
Amazing! So happy to hear that 🙂
This is delicious and one I will definitely make again. Added some extra veggies since they were already in the fridge (fresh corn, mushrooms and cabbage). Next time I’ll remember to add the peas!
Love that ideas! Glad you enjoyed 🙂
I loved this recipe. I made it GF by substituting 1 cup GF pasta stars and it was wonderful – chicken and veggies were so tender. I will add a bit more salt and pepper next time but that’s all to taste. On another note, as a new reader of your blog, it was hard to find “real” reviews among the dialogue about proper use of language. It would be great if you could “make it go away” by somehow deleting those “non-food” posts so that we can totally focus on the great food you are creating. 🙂
Found this in my search for a delicious chicken soup recipe to make for friends who have the flu. I’m not sure about adding any kind of noodles/pasta/cous cous because not sure they’ll eat it if I do! I guess I could just thicken with cornflour?
Main question though is I bought a whole chicken, because I want to slowly cook it to release all the goodness from the bones etc which is truly the healing magic of chicken soup. Any tips to alter this recipe for this type of cook? Should I cook it all together and remove the bones afterward, or should I make a stock from my chicken and then make the soup with the stock later, adding in the cooked chicken at the end…?
Thanks!
I think that’s completely up to you, and that either will work well, it’s just up to your personal preferences. You can feel free to use less broth for a thicker soup! or just double the chicken, veggies, etc.
I added fresh cilantro it gives it another Kick in the ” Ass” sorry could not help that. after reading all the post…. great soup will do it again… I am not a measure type of girl.. but I doubled everything My hubby is sick so made him this soup and he loves it….. quick fyi I added no noodles or cous cous. or peas,,, he is not a noodle type of man ha! but he got a huge kick out of reading the post about un proper language,….
Perfect! So happy you both liked it even without the couscous (and the un proper language…haha).
Just made this soup and it was amazing! My 12yr son and I had a bowl and cant wait for dinner tomorrow night.
Thank you
So happy to hear that! One of my favorite dinners 🙂
Hi! Sorry to hear that this didn’t work out in your slow cooker. I haven’t personally tested it in a slow cooker, which is why I didn’t include instructions for how to do so. A few commenters have had success with this one in the slow cooker, so I would start there if you’d like to make this one again! A large pot will also work well 🙂
Now that it’s September, I’m back to making this weekly/bi-weekly for the fall and winter! It’s such a delicious and comforting soup! I double the chicken (2lb instead of 1lb), use at least 2L of broth, and usually throw some spinach in as well! Thank you so much for this recipe! 🙂
Soup season is the best! So glad you love this one. I’ll be making it all season, too!
The BEST chicken soup ever, and easy!
Yes! My absolute favorite, too 🙂
Really good soup! I’ve made it twice and the second time I use shredded rotisserie chicken and only used 1/3 cup of couscous. The one cup couscous for me just soaked too much of the wonderful broth. Thanks for the recipe!
Hey I just had a laparoscopic myomectomy and got discharged after three days of full on IV drip with serious pain in my pelvis. I made this soup with the help of my Husband and it’s Soooo nourishing !!!! Thank you Soo much for this. Highly recommend it to others who are sick or coming out of an open surgery for recovery!!
This looks delish! Going to make it today. But first want to ask (tried to check comments to see if anyone else asked but all I saw were comments about swearing – Yeesh tough crowd!) — how does the couscous hold up? If I were making with egg noodles I would cook them separate and add in as we eat. But maybe don’t need to do that with couscous? And does it freeze well? Just wondering if I should make a bigger batch?
I made this soup today and it was really good, thank you! However, I only added 1/3 cup Israeli couscous as 1 cup would have been far too much. There wouldn’t have been any liquid left.
This soup is delicious! Easy to make and really makes you feel good. I added 2 chile peppers to it for a little kick. I will definitely make this again.
So glad you enjoyed this soup, Liz!
Such a brilliant recipe! Have made the chicken version and a vegetarian version. I used bulgar wheat for myself as not fond of cous cous in both versions. I used pearl barley in another chicken batch for a friend who prefers this. I used fresh sage and thyme but left out the rosemary each time as not keen on the taste. I also used 1/2 cup of dried yellow peas instead of the frozen in all three versions. This is now my go-to chicken soup recipe – thank you!
Great! This one is perfect for customizing 🙂 Glad you’ve been loving it!
I thought this soup looked good but was skeptical on the best chicken soup ever. But I was SO wrong. Never making any other chicken noodle soup again! We couldn’t stop eating it and it’s perfect for clearing you up if you have a cold. 10/10 would recommend!
YES so happy you found this one! Perfect for a cold all winter long, too.
This is my favorite soup recipe! My boyfriend requests it all the time and it’s so easy to make. The only alteration I make is extra broth because by the next day the pearl noodles really soak it up.
Perfect! So glad you both love this one.
This is the best soup recipe ever! I typically make it in a crockpot and it turnes out great!
Perfect! Love that.
Amazing recipe. My first time ever making a soup and it was a hit! So good everyone went for seconds. I did struggle to find the couscous but worked out great using another type of noodle: Acini de Pepe. Thank you for sharing this recipe.
Perfect! So happy to hear that. I’ll have to give it a try with those new noodles sometime 🙂
Made this soup because I wanted something healthy that still had some carbs in it. This was incredible!!! I definitely recommend following to a T!
So glad you found this one! My all-time favorite 🙂
Can you do this in the crockpot ?
Hi Katherine! I’ve seen a few readers successfully make this in the crockpot – let me know if you try it 🙂
Hi! Will make this recipe tonight. Can we sub couscous with rice? If so how does procedure/cooking time change ?
Hi! Yes regular white rice will likely take around 20 mins if simmered. You may want to add 1-2 cups more broth though!
Hi! This soup is incredible, thank you! I am trying to count calories and wondering how you calculate the calories in this recipe? I saw you used Kcalories above… but it seems like a lot! Again, delish. Thanks 🙂
Hi! Glad you love it! The kcal is the same as calories, and we calculate by adding each ingredient individually.
I am making this for the second time. I loved it the first time and have been thinking about it ever since. The first time I used rice in place of the couscous and it tasted great. (Today I am using the couscous.) . Also, it froze well. Thank you for a wonderful chicken soup recipe!
Love it! Great idea with the rice 🙂
This was pretty simple and very rad!!! Great flavor! Will definitely put this on rotation. Absolutely the best chicken soup I’ve ever had. I used chicken thighs because I’m more of a dark meat lover and it worked great.
So glad you enjoyed! I love using chicken thighs too – such great flavor.
We have been trying to eat meals that give us as many goodies as possible….this us a fabulous soup!!! made it several times already and it is the only chicken spup recipe I use!!!! My familyloves it and there are never leftovers! Sometimes Iadd whatever I have in the fridge…like chard or kale or spinach. Wonderful!!
Amazing! So happy to hear that. And great idea with some extra greens!
How long would you cook this in a crock pot?
My go to recipe for soup! I’m a busy veterinarian and just love how easy and YUMMY this is. It’s gotten me through lots of illnesses as well – so much ginger!
I’m so glad you found this one! Perfect for winter and cold season.
How will I do this with an instant pot? Thanks!
I haven’t tried it in an Instant Pot so I’m not sure! Let me know if you do 🙂
Yummy! I made with some alphabet shaped pasta I had since the soup was mostly for my sick kiddo. He usually doesn’t want anything to do with the broth or meat (so I used some bone broth I had made and left the chicken out) and this broth is SO FLAVORFUL. Hopefully we are on the mend!
Alphabet shapes sound perfect in here 🙂 Hope your little one is feeling better!
I love the soup as is but this time I added broccoli a few mushrooms a little more couscous and some cayenne pepper it’s so good 😍
Love it! Great idea 🙂
Once again. And again. This is the BEST soup ever. I’m sick. Again. And it’s so easy to make even when forced to. 😉
My absolute favorite! Get well soon!
OBSESSED with this soup!
So happy to hear that!
I’ve been making this soup recipe for the last year and it is a family favorite. Anytime someone starts with the sniffles it’s requested that I make it.
I just had foot surgery on Monday and the night before I made a big pot of this and I can’t thank you enough for such a fantastic go to recipe.
So glad you love this one! A great recipe for recovering, too – get well soon!
I made this when I was battling a cold, and it was just what I needed! I added extras of the spices and herbs because I love ginger and had extra rosemary and thyme on hand. Would recommend to anyone looking for a cozy meal — whether you’re sick or not!
The perfect soup for a cold – so glad you loved it! Great idea with some extra herbs and ginger 🙂
Have you made this soup with quinoa to make it gluten free?
I know that some readers have and it’s still delicious!
This soup is wonderful! Bursting with flavor and easy to make! I added extra carrots but that’s just because my kids love carrots. Perfect for a cold day!
So glad you loved it! Extra carrots sound perfect 🙂
I roasted bone on chicken breast and thighs instead of cooking in the soup. I used Ditalini pasta because I didn’t have couscous and squirted some lemon juice in at the end! Divine!
Sounds delicious! Perfect combo 🙂
Just made this soup and had a bowl. It is by far the best chicken soup I’ve ever had!
So happy to hear that! 🙂
The soup was very good but too gingery for my taste; next time I’ll cut the ginger in half. (Instead I increased other ingredients and added a bit of mild curry powder). I couldn’t find Israeli couscous in my grocery store, so I substituted whole wheat orzo. The orzo was fine, but I do look forward to trying the couscous. I added some baby spinach at the very end, which was quite nice.
Feel free to adjust the ginger to your liking! And yes, let me know how you like the couscous in here 🙂 Great idea with the spinach, too!
This is the most delicious soup! Can you post an instant pot adaptation, if possible?
Glad you love it! I’ve actually never cooked this in an Instant Pot so I’m not 100% sure what the instructions are. Let me know if you try it!
This is the very best damn chicken soup recipe I’ve ever tried!
So happy to hear that!
I added the couscous while cooking this soup as the instructions indicated and it soaked up all of the broth. Followed the instructions exactly. It was a lot of work grating the fresh tumeric and ginger and I was very disappointed.
I never have had this issue, but it can depend on how high your heat was when simmering. Feel free to add more broth!
This soup is delicious and exactly what I needed to help kick this holiday cold I’m fighting. The only reason I’m not giving 5 stars is because the couscous soaks up all of the 6 cups of broth, so I’d suggest cooking separately and scooping the pasta into the bowl when you serve it so that you don’t lose all of that tasty broth.
So strange! I never have had this issue, but it can depend on how high your heat was when simmering. Feel free to add more broth!
Such a yummy soup! I added extra carrots & celery and used dried herbs and it turned out amazing. I have made it twice and it has such a great flavor!!
Perfect! My all-time favorite 🙂 glad you enjoyed!
Fantastic soup! The flavor is wonderful! I didn’t have the frozen peas, but added fresh mushrooms. I will make this often. So good!
Love the idea of mushrooms in here. Yum! Glad you enjoyed!
Such a delicious soup. Still similar enough to chicken noodle soup that my kids would eat it, but so much richer and more flavourful then standard chicken noodle. This is now in regular rotation at our house
Absolutely! It’s the perfect chicken noodle soup upgrade 🙂 so glad the kids love it!
This is the best chicken soup! And my 16 year old swears it cures his cold. We all love it, adults and kids ages 7-16.
It’s perfect for colds! So happy everyone loves it.
Just made this soup!!! The turmeric and ginger adds a depth of flavor that takes this soup over the top. I love Israeli couscous, so glad you suggested
that. I used bi-colored organic carrots because that’s all I had, and it added
Some nice color! Will be keeping this recipe! Love everything you do!
Aren’t the flavors amazing? So glad you loved this one!
We love this delicious recipe and t is now our go to chicken soup! I like to put a little EVO and parm on top. Added some chickpeas to soup, too. Served with a big green salad and crusty bread. Made this soup last night and thought about it all day. 5 stars.
Love that idea! So happy it’s a go-to 🙂
100% this is the BEST chicken soup I’ve ever had! The fresh ginger and turmeric were amazing in the soup. I didn’t have fresh rosemary or thyme so I just added the exact same amount of dried. Generally the rule is add less of the dried herb (usually cut it in half) if you are converting from fresh to dried but I decided I wouldn’t mind the strong flavor. The dried thyme I mixed right in to the soup but the dried rosemary I made a sachet and added it like that so that my kids wouldn’t complain about thick rosemary pieces in the soup, In any case, this was by far the best chicken soup I’ve ever had. Thank you so much for this generous recipe and I hope the New Year brings you lots of adoring fans!
Perfect! So happy you loved this one. Happy new year to you, too 🙂
I made this last night. I had the flu for days and now a cold. I needed something! i dont know how i did it. I was exhausted but it was worth it. Best chicken soup is right. I used dried herbs, and turmeric. otherwise i followed recipe to a T. I will make this again and again. I think one time add spinach instead of peas. thanks for a great and easy recipe.
I’m so glad you found this one! Such a great, healing soup. Hope you’re feeling better!
I was feeling under the weather and decided to make this soup. It is delicious and just what I needed. So full of flavour and comforting. I will be making it again.
I’m so glad you found this one! Hope you’re feeling better!
Best chicken soup EVER!!
Glad you love it, too!!
I love this recipe so much, it has become one of my samples whenever I feel sick! It is so flavourful and filling, I’m planning on making it again tonight!
I’m so glad you found this one! Perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.
What can I substitute for turmeric? I don’t have any and I don’t know what kind of flavor it adds. Can I just do without?
Feel free to leave it out!
Question about the couscous: do you toast the couscous before putting it in the soup? That’s usually how it’s prepared I thought? This soup sounds amazing. Can’t wait to try it!!
I don’t usually toast it! It’s delicious added straight in 🙂 Enjoy!
I made it! I love it! I added a lot more chicken stock – probably 1 1/2 cups, as that was to my liking! I’m fighting a cold and it’s cold where I live right now, so this is perfect! Thank you! Oh…love the peas in there..
Perfect! So glad you loved this recipes. Hope you feel better soon!
This IS the best chicken soup I have ever made!! I feel like a pro 😁
Amazing! So happy to hear that 🙂
I loved this soup. My husband did too. It’s zo hearty and delicious!
So happy to hear that!
Delicious and easy!
Glad you enjoyed!
Soup was delicious! One of my new favorite guilt free soups. Do you have any advice to avoid turmeric stains?
So happy you enjoyed! Great question. Here’s a good resource! https://food52.com/blog/15548-how-to-get-rid-of-turmeric-stains-on-your-dishes-linens-counters-and-fingers
This soup was just delicious, as is. I could taste all the aromatics, and the chicken, though it took a bit longer to cook for me because my pieces were pretty big, was tender. The flavor was exactly perfect for a cold wintry night. I am printing it out to save to make again – which is rare, but it was just that good.
Perfect! So happy to hear that, Lisa!
Delicious! Just made my first batch tonight and it was perfect for this cold weather here in the SF Bay Area. Has a good amount of heat from the ginger and pepper (though not overpowering) and the couscous gives this soup a nice texture. Will definitely make again.
Love this one for chilly nights! I’m glad you enjoyed 🙂
I left out the cous cous, the peas and made this excellent soup a little more low-carb friendly. I added a little chopped cabbage instead. It’s a keeper, I will be making it frequently. Thanks!
Perfect! Glad you enjoyed!
Loved it !
So happy to hear that!
Made this soup tonight following the directions EXACTLY and let me just say this is by far one of the BEST soups I’ve ever had. This will be a weekly additional to our family meals. Highly highly recommend this soup— especially if feeling under the weather. The pearl couscous thickens the soup and makes it hearty and filling. NOTE: I prefer my soups thicker so the 6 cups of broth was perfect, however if you like more liquid in your soup you will want to add at least 1-2 more cups of broth.
Amazing! I’m so glad you loved this one. The couscous is the best!
Mmm-so good! David and I both home sick and like you, love a great chicken soup. I thought my recipe best until I tried yours. Omg, seriously delicious! I substituted the carrots for carrot spirals it’s the only thing I had in my freezer and did not have the Israeli couscous, so had to go with a little rice. The flavors were fantastic Monique so your chicken soup is now our fave and on the grocery list goes Israeli Pearl couscous.
Delicious! Hope you’re both feeling better – and great idea with the rice 🙂
I make this regularly and sometimes omit the cous cous and it’s still wonderful.
Perfect! Happy to hear that.
Made the soup for my boyfriend who was recovering from a nasty cold – and we both loved it!
Amazing! Glad you both enjoyed 🙂
Love this soup! I like to finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Great idea! So happy you love it!
This is straight up amazing. It’s so simple yet elevated regular chicken noodle soup- the turmeric and ginger Just make it pop. This is definitely going to become a staple for me! Thank you!!
The turmeric and ginger are key here! Glad you loved this 🙂
I was Delicious! My whole family loved it. I used chicken thighs and replaced yellow onion with leeks because that’s what I had already chopped up.
The best chicken soup ever! I don’t use fresh spices because they are too expensive and they go bad before I can use them up. Still, the best ever! I made my second pot today.
Perfect! Still delicious with dried herbs 🙂
This recipe is amazing. I believed tortilla soup or maybe chicken noodle with homemade noodles to be the king of chicken soups until I tried this recipe. I have made it several times now and am still unwilling to change any ingredients (save a couscous substitution for something all ready on hand). It’s too good the way it is!
I noticed that in step 3 you instruct the reader to bring the soup to a boil after we added the chicken breast in step 2. This may cause the chicken to end up tough because it becomes overcooked. I often threaten my coworkers, “A soup boiled is a soup spoiled.” when they are preparing soup at the resturant where I work.
I would simply reduce the broth to simmer after you have finished boiling the couscous and then add the chicken. Or, simmer both the chicken and noodles for additional time without letting the soup reach a boil.
Finally, I made this recipe with chicken stock I had prepared ahead of time, I strongly suggest it to any of the readers if you have the means as it will drastically improve the quality of your final product. Thanks for taking the time to share this with us, I enjoyed every mouthful!
So glad you enjoyed this one! Feel free to simmer as well 🙂 One of my fav recipes!
Truly the best chicken soup ever! I started making the double of the recipe to have leftovers for the week. I just followed the recipe as is, and it came out perfect!
Perfect! So happy to hear that.
Hands down the best chicken soup I’ve made. Just the right amount of spice. This will be my go-to chicken soup recipe. Thank you for sharing!
So happy to hear that, Deb!
Fabulous this is the best ever chicken soup. It’s a meal in its self.
I’m glad you like it!
Made this twice in the past week and it gets better every time! I modified by including more carrots and celery and also adding three tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. I also used homemade chicken bone broth for the base. So yummy!
Perfect! So glad you love this one!
Thank you!! My soup was actually sweet. I’m assuming that the organic vegetables in the winter is sweeter than usual. Either way, I enjoyed the ease and tastiness.
It must’ve been the vegetables you had! Glad you enjoyed 🙂
I really enjoyed this recipe. Do you know how to convert this into an instant pot recipe?
Loved this soup, as did my three teenage girls. I had no fresh herbss on hand, so used 1/2 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme as well as a teaspoon of ginger powder. Ended up adding a little extra couscous and threw in some cooked chicken I had. It was still delicious despite all of the shortcuts. Can’t wait to try it with all fresh ingredients next time!
Feasting on this for my suppers this week-SO good!
Best soup on the entire blog!!!! My husband loves this so much, and I have been doing Monique’s soups for a while, this is everyone’s fave!!!
Amazing! So happy to hear that Alex 🙂
My husband and I were laughing because at this point, we essentially cook exclusively AK recipes…… but come on, they are so good!
I made this tonight when I felt a terrible cold coming on. It was so comforting and nourishing. I think I’ll probably be in the eye of the storm for the next few days, but glad I have this to give me some nutrients and hopefully shorten the life of this sickness.
I’m gluten free so I used brown rice Cacaresse pasta, which is shorter and has a bite to it – reminiscent of those short, thick noodles traditionally in chicken noodle soup. Turned out amazing! I also had half a lemon in my fridge and squeezed that in too. Can’t wait to make this again…. hopefully just for the taste, not because I’m sick and dying.
I’m so glad you two love the recipes here! And this one is so nourishing for a cold. Great idea with some gf pasta and hope you’re feeling better!
This is one of the best soups I’ve ever tried. My husband (who is not a soup fan) loved it too.
I’m curious if you’ve ever tried with farro? It plumps up really nice and has some added nutritional benefits.
I’m so glad you both loved it! I haven’t tried it with farro but it should work well 🙂
Yum.
Glad you enjoyed!
wonderful soup! I made it for a sick friend and it made her feel better immediately
So happy to hear that!
Delicious! Never would have thought to add peas, but I loved the addition!
So good! Glad you like this one 🙂
Amaaaazing. Loved this soup! Will definitely make alot during this cold/flu season! SO YUMMY!!!
So glad you loved it! Yes, perfect for cold season!
Hi!
So I Followed the recipe exactly, maybe even cooked a little longer, yet when I took the chicken out to shred I noticed the middle was still pink a little. Have you ever experienced this in boiling the chicken? I’m wondering if that’s safe to eat.
Thanks!
Hi! I haven’t experienced this when boiling the chicken but if the chicken breast or thighs you used were particularly thick they may have needed some extra time to boil. If you notice this you can feel free to add them back to the pot to finish cooking 🙂
Great recipe! Truly enjoyed it, many thanks for sharing. Was wondering if I could freeze the leftovers? Never frozen Israeli cous cous, so I thought I’d ask just in case.
So happy to hear that! People have frozen this one with success, but you could also freeze it without the couscous and add it in when you’re ready to eat 🙂
I’m curious this is rated 5 stars but you don’t show the comments by the reviewers? The review comments are where I go to decide if i want to try a recipe or get tips for maybe add/ delete ingredients. I have this soup on the stove right now cooking. If you can tell me where to see all your comments I would appreciate it.
Hi Julie! If you click the button that says “Show Comments” right underneath where you submit your own comment you’ll see them all. We get hundreds of comments on recipes, so this option helps to keep the page looking clean 🙂 enjoy!
Omg the “best soup you’ll ever have” in the title is NO JOKE!!! THIS SOUP IS AMAZING!!!!!
Yes!! So happy you loved it!
Every time I make soup I always use a Bay Leaf!
I think 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric would do just fine.
I used Medium Shells instead of Couscous.
The Quinoa idea also sounded good!
I also used 1 full cup of peas.
Thanks, turned out really good!
Feel free to throw a bay leaf in and reduce the turmeric a bit! Love shells, too 🙂 glad you enjoyed!
This was so easy and really good! I accidentally used waayyyy too much rosemary, but it has been a great thing to eat when you have a sinus cold, and easy to prepare! Is there any way to remedy using way too many spices? It wont help this time, and rosemary is not the worst to over season with, just curious if there are suggestions in case I ever accidentally chop triple the amount the recipe calls for again.
So glad you liked it! Feel free to try and fish it out with a fine mesh strainer.
I made this last night and it was the BEST chicken noodle soup I’ve ever had! I love the couscous pearls. They add amazing texture! Next time I would add more onion and carrot. I also cooked this in my instant pot. Adding everything and cooking on the “soup” option for 15 minutes and then releasing the steam and repeating with couscous for 5 minutes. It turned out perfectly.
Perfect! So glad it worked out in your Instant Pot and that it was a big hit 🙂
My neighbor made this soup and sent some to me because I have had a horrible cold. IT TRULY WAS THE BEST CHICKEN SOUP I EVER HAD…
So happy you loved it!! I hope you’re feeling better!
this soup was so good-everybody loved it! I can’t wait to make it again!!
Amazing! So happy to hear that!
Hi! Just curious if you could use cauliflower rice instead of couscous? If so, would you just add towards the end?
Hi! You could but it really wouldn’t be the same consistency as the couscous releases starch to thicken the broth. If you try it, I suggest adding in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
I love this recipe SO much! It is my go-to chicken soup recipe and I love the addition of turmeric and ginger for both an immunity boost and extra flavor. Now I can’t see making chicken soup any other way! Thank you for the amazing recipes, Monique!
Amazing! So happy to hear that, Rosalyn 🙂
Delicious! The turmeric and ginger are life changing! Who would’ve thought??! I used egg noodles instead of couscous and it came out great. Will make again!
Aren’t they amazing?? Great idea with the egg noodles – yum!
This really is the best chicken soup. I love the Israeli couscous! I added more ginger and turmeric. Perfect for anyone fighting a cold. Don’t wait. Make it!!!
I’m so glad you love it! So nourishing. Thanks for your note, Diana!
Absolutely loved! Used more celeryand added 2 more cups of broth from the start, but day after the liquid had still almost fully absorbed. I think I will add more water next time. But tastes absolutely devine and will make many times!
So glad you loved it! Hmmm strange that it completely absorbed, but always feel free to add some more chicken broth 🙂
Absolutely the best!
Thank you so much!!
So glad you loved it!!
Soup was delicious! Did not have any couscous so I used orzo. I omitted the salt as I am on a salt free diet so I wanted something to enhance the flavor even more. Sprinkled Penzeys Sunny Spain Seasoning to the soup and it really brought it to a new level. The seasoning is salt-free and lemon-pepper flavored making it perfect for chicken or fish and it really “popped”.
Perfect! I’m glad seasoning worked out well 🙂 love the idea of orzo in here!
Great recipe, family liked it. Came together very easily. I didn’t buy enough pearl couscous for the double recipe I was doing so I threw in some regular noodles and it was fine.
Perfect! So glad the whole family liked it.
My new favorite chicken soup! Made this when I was feeling under the weather and it hit the spot. Great flavor, and I love the earthiness from the turmeric. It also comes together quickly, so even doable on a weeknight.
So happy to hear that! Such a great weeknight dinner. I hope you’re feeling better!
Absolutely love this recipe! Even the husband is asking for it! I used 1 cup of barley and a little less Rosemary as I’m always afraid it will overpower a dish.
Perfect! So glad you both enjoyed!
You guys, MAKE THIS SOUP. I am an avid soup consumer and cooker and I have never had a chicken soup like this. I love the ginger and turmeric flavors. I followed the recipe exactly except I added Orzo instead of Israeli couscous. I will make this another 826 times. Thanks for the recipe!
Thanks so much for your comment, Caitlin! Truly my favorite soup 🙂 love the idea of using orzo, too!
I totally agree with the ‘title‘ of this soup. It truly is the best. The spices and herbs make the most wonderful broth. I am gluten free so I used quinoa, which is the only thing I would change in the future. I would try it with rice, and less than a cup.
I’m so glad you loved this one! And yes, rice would be delicious in this.
I’ve made this Soup 4 times! I have spread out the love that I put my twist to this soup. My secrecy ingredients are my passion for cooking & love. I roast my chicken thighs, for 15 mins. Then while they are roasting i saute my other ingredients then i use gravy paste chicken with the water & add in the chicken with skin. It gives it more flavor. After the chicken cooks for 20 mins in the soup I take it out & shred it& discard the skin. On the side I make white rice for those who want to add to the soup. Delish!
This one’s great for customizing! So glad you like it with those little twists 🙂
OMG this soup is SO. GOOD. The ingredient combo is delicious and the seasoning is spot on. I made the recipe verbatim except I used 1/2 cup of Israeli couscous after reading the reviews, which was a good call- the couscous was a hearty touch and pleasantly thickened the soup, while still leaving some broth, so I definitely think 1 cup of couscous would have thickened it too much for my likening. My chicken was juicy, tender and ready to shred (& registered 165 with a thermometer) after 20 mins of a med-low boil. I used fresh herbs and fresh ginger/garlic, and I think that made all the difference. This soup is just what I needed while home sick- I will keep this in my rotation! Thank you!
I’m so glad you found this recipe! My absolute go-to and the perfect cure for sickness.
I made this last night since my son has a cold. I was looking for a recipe to jazz up the usual homemade chicken noodle soup I make. This was the recipe I was looking for. Delicious, easy, everyone enjoyed it and the leftovers were eaten for lunch today. I used chicken thighs and accidentally forgot the peas. Definitely recommend!
I’m so glad you found this recipe! Perfect for a cold.
This recipe deserves the high ratings. It was easy to prepare, and soooo delicious. It was immediately requested to become a part of my regular rotation…and that is the biggest compliment it can get in my house. Thanks for the awesome recipe.
So happy everyone loved it! Delicious all year round 🙂
Excellent healing chicken soup
Absolutely. My favorite!
Just delicious! I left out the couscous because my husband eats very low-carb, and I used chicken thighs. I loved the seasonings; they all blended very well together. It was quick and easy to make, too.
Perfect! I love using chicken thighs in this one, too. Glad you liked it!
Instructions are great but I do not like the flavor combination of classic herbs thyme/rosemary and ginger/turmeric. My husband has a cold so I thought this would be a good meal for healing.
Sorry to hear that! You are welcome to leave out ingredients to suit your preferences.
I never comment on recipes, even if they are delicious, but for this one, I’m making an exception. This soup is super yummy and comforting from the first bite until the last and I’ve made it so many times this winter, I’ve practically memorized it. Thank you for sharing! Cheers!
Hi Danielle! Thanks for your comment – I’m so glad you’re loving this soup. Such a great go-to all winter long!
My family loved this soup recipe. I tweaked it a little by adding fresh corn, adding parsley and a squeeze of lemon upon serving. will definitely be trying another recipe soon.
Perfect! Love those ideas 🙂
I made this today with the exact ingredients listed and it is marvelous! I will definitely make again and can’t wait to try more of your recipes. Thank you for sharing it!
Perfect! Happy to hear that 🙂
I made this soup twice and it is very tasty and good for my cold! Thank you so much!
So happy to hear that! I hope you’re feeling better!
for the noodles just break up some spaghetti pasta with hands into small lengths. Take out how much soup you want to use and put dry spaghetti in simmer with lid on for 8 to 10 mins, test a little spaghetti to see if it is how you like it. If you put it in the whole soup overnight the spaghetti wont be nice the next day and will soak up some soup so just use the amount of soup you want and add as much spaghetti pasta as you need.
Great tip! Yum 🙂
This was a delicious recipe that won the soup cook off at my workplace. The time is took to put this together was reasonable and so worth all the great ingredients.
Love that!!
This recipe sounds delicious and I want to try making it soon! If I use ground ginger, rosemary and thyme would it be the same amount as using fresh? I noticed the turmeric changes depending on fresh or ground, so I was curious.
It is! I recommend a 1/2 teaspoon of each if you are using dried.
I made this soup tonight. It really is the best chicken soup I’ve ever tasted. It will definitely be a family favourite. Thanks for the recipe.
So happy to hear that! Perfect for the whole family.
I saw this recipe and though looks good I’ll try it. Nice little twist on what I would normally make. But boy was I shocked how amazing this was! My husband and I couldn’t get over how delicious it was. I did sub the raw chicken for some rotisserie chicken I had in the freezer and it was still really great! 10/10 will be making this again!
So happy you both loved it! Great idea with the rotisserie chicken, too!
This was delicious! My 8 year old daughter LOVED it. She is going through chemo so getting her to eat something this healthy made my week. My husband and I did have to double up on the spices in our own bowls as we always overspice our foods. Thanks for this recipe!
I’m so glad you and your daughter loved this one! Sending healing thoughts her way!
Love this recipe! Super easy to make and I swapped the chicken for chickpeas to make it vegetarian and it worked well!
Great idea! Glad you enjoyed 🙂
Delicious! I didn’t have to add any salt (used the whole box of no salt and the rest plus one cup of low salt chicken broth) also, I cut up raw chicken into chunks instead of shredding. A winner!!!!
Perfect! So glad you enjoyed!
I made this exactly as described and it came out tasting hearty and delicious with just the right amount of seasoning/flavor. I will say (and as noted in the recipe as an aside) a mere 6 cups of broth did leave my soup a bit too chunky; in the future I will go in with a few more cups of broth. Will make again!
Glad you enjoyed! And yes feel free to add a bit more broth next time.
SOOOOO good! Lives up to it’s name! Absolutely delicious!
SOOOOO good! Lives up to its name! Absolutely delicious!
So happy you loved it!
I don’t usually take the time to come back and rate recipes but this soup was truly wonderful! I’ve NEVER had better chicken soup… maybe the best soup ever. I added a whole bunch more fresh herbs, oregano, Flat leaf parsley, sage. And added hot paprika. You won’t regret making this!
So happy to hear that, Angela! Thanks for your comment and rating 🙂
My favorite soup EVER. The flavor combos are legit. This is just the best comfort soup. Make it.
So glad you love it! My fav soup, too 🙂
Can you tell me the dried substitutes for the spices? Don’t have these fresh and wanna try it. Thanks!
Hi! I’d recommend 1/2 teaspoon of each for dried. Enjoy!
Loved the healthy ingredients and the soup tasted very good! Thank you! My only constructive feedback is that it took more than 10 minutes of chopping and prep.
Glad you enjoyed! And thank you for the feedback 🙂
I have made this soup and it is definitely the most nutrient rich and it is full of spices and goodies that are proven immune system boosters! Lucky for me, my family loves it!!!
Absolutely! So happy the whole family loves it, too!
Delicious, comforting and healthy! Thank you for a great recipe!
Absolutely! Glad you loved it 🙂
This soup was great! I will definitely make it again. The broth was so flavorful.
So happy you loved it!
This really is the best soup! We have made it four times in the past 3 weeks.
Amazing! So happy to hear that.
It was delicious!
Glad you loved it!
Can I cook this using a slow cooker?
Hi! I’ve had a few readers successfully make it in the slow cooker. Here’s what someone tried: “I sauteed the onions, carrots and celery first, then stirred the ginger and turmeric in. I transferred that to the Slow Cooker along with the chicken, stock and herbs. I added the peas and couscous near the end of the cooking time.”
Hi – this sounds incredible. Can I make it in a slow cooker? If so, how long would you recommend?
Hi! I’ve had a few readers successfully make it in the slow cooker. Here’s what someone tried: “I sauteed the onions, carrots and celery first, then stirred the ginger and turmeric in. I transferred that to the Slow Cooker along with the chicken, stock and herbs. I added the peas and couscous near the end of the cooking time.”