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Lemon Chicken Soup

Lemon Chicken Soup
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Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that combines tender chicken, bright lemon juice and zest, aromatic vegetables, and wholesome broth. This flavorful soup is perfect for any season, balancing vibrant citrus notes with hearty protein and fresh herbs to create a warm, satisfying meal ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed and cut if desired

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Citrus & Herbs

  • 2 fresh lemons, zested and juiced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Liquids & Fats

  • 6 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup cooked rice or noodles (optional, for extra heartiness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onions, celery, and carrots. Zest and juice the lemons. Trim and cut the chicken if you want it to cook faster.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
  3. Add Garlic and Chicken: Stir in the minced garlic just until fragrant, then add the chicken pieces. Sear gently to lock in the juices but avoid cooking through completely.
  4. Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add the chicken broth along with fresh thyme and parsley. Bring to a simmer and cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through, approximately 20 minutes.
  5. Finish with Lemon and Seasonings: Remove the chicken and shred it, then return it to the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add noodles or rice and cook until tender.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for vibrant citrus flavor and aroma.
  • Cook chicken gently to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Season gradually, adding salt and pepper in layers for perfect balance.
  • Skim excess fat off the broth for a lighter soup if desired.
  • Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken soup, comforting soup, citrus soup, healthy chicken soup, gluten free soup

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/lemon-chicken-soup/