Description
Lemon Chicken Soup is a bright, comforting, and nutritious dish featuring tender chicken, fresh lemon juice, and a savory broth. Perfect for any meal or occasion, this easy-to-prepare soup combines zesty lemon flavors with wholesome ingredients to warm the soul and satisfy hunger. Customizable and packed with protein and vitamins, it’s an ideal choice for a light lunch, soothing dinner, or sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Produce
- 2 fresh lemons, zest and juice
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
Liquids
- 6 cups good-quality chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Dice carrots and celery, mince garlic, zest and juice fresh lemons. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces or keep whole for shredding after cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat, add garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Cook the chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides, sealing in juices and enriching the broth.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in lemon and seasonings: Remove pot from heat, stir in fresh lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to achieve balanced tanginess.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill on top, ladle soup into bowls, and enjoy the bright, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most natural flavor.
- Do not overcook chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Simmer the soup gently to meld flavors and maintain a clear, rich broth.
- Add lemon juice gradually, tasting to avoid overpowering tanginess.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their aroma and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: lemon chicken soup, lemon soup, chicken soup, comforting soup, gluten free soup, healthy soup, easy soup recipe