There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Lemon Chicken Soup that can instantly lift your spirits. Picture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the bright aroma of fresh lemons mingling with savory chicken, garlic, and herbs—a flavor explosion waiting to happen. hearty chicken and rice soup The warmth of this soup wraps around you like a soft blanket on a chilly day, promising comfort in every sip.
I remember the first time I made this delightful dish. It was one of those dreary days when even my coffee seemed less invigorating. I decided to whip up some Lemon Chicken Soup, and as soon as it simmered on the stove, my family came rushing in, lured by the tantalizing scent. chicken and broccoli orzo dish quick chicken soup alternative Trust me, this soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want to revisit time and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Chicken Soup is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Its bright, zesty flavor profile will awaken your taste buds and brighten any meal
- The vibrant yellow color makes it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
- Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or a light dinner; it’s versatile enough for any occasion
Everyone raved about how the soup brightened their day—it was gone in minutes!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
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Fresh Lemons: Opt for juicy lemons since their zest makes all the difference in flavor.
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Carrots: Choose firm carrots; they’ll add sweetness and color to your soup.
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Celery Stalks: Fresh celery brings crunch and aromatic depth to every bowl.
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Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they really elevate the dish.
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Chicken Broth: A good quality broth is essential for rich flavor—homemade if you’re feeling fancy!
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme/Parsley): Fresh herbs add brightness; don’t skip them!
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those fabulous flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First things first: Gather all your ingredients because we are diving into soup land!
Prep Your Chickens!: Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Sauté Those Aromatics!: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become fragrant.
Add Garlic and Herbs!: Stir in minced garlic along with thyme and parsley until you can smell that garlicky goodness wafting through your kitchen.
Pour in the Broth!: Add your chicken broth gently into the pot while scraping up any delicious bits stuck at the bottom—this is where flavor lives!
Simmer Away!: Toss in your seasoned chicken breasts whole. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
Add Lemons!: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the broth before returning shredded chicken back into its citrusy bath.
Now that you’ve created something truly special, serve that Lemon Chicken Soup hot! Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for an unforgettable meal experience. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Rice and Broccoli recipe.
This heartwarming soup will not only warm your belly but also invigorate your soul—a delightful combo that’s hard to beat!
You Must Know
- This lemon chicken soup is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a sore throat
- Its zesty flavor and comforting warmth create a delightful experience, while the fresh ingredients make it both nourishing and satisfying
- Get ready for flavorful slurps and happy tummies!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chopped carrots and celery. Cook the chicken separately to ensure juicy meat before combining everything in a pot with broth and lemon juice. garlic parmesan chicken pairing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to personalize your lemon chicken soup by adding spices like thyme or dill. You could also toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients and vibrant color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove to maintain flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a burst of flavor that elevates this soup
- Squeeze some extra lemon juice just before serving to brighten the taste even more
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go along for best results
Making this lemon chicken soup reminds me of my childhood when my grandma would whip it up at the first sign of a sniffle. Her secret ingredient? A sprinkle of love!
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a time-saver that adds incredible flavor to the soup.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is best.
Can I freeze lemon chicken soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just leave out any noodles before freezing to prevent mushiness.
Lemon Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Warm your soul with this vibrant Lemon Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. With its bright flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience to savor.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 large fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the chicken breasts, rinse under cold water, and pat dry.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and parsley until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the whole chicken breasts to the pot; reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken; shred it and return to the pot along with fresh lemon juice and zest. Stir well before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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