Looking for a soul-soothing, immune-boosting, and utterly delicious soup? This Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is exactly what you need! This recipe combines tender chicken, comforting noodles, and a bright, zesty lemon broth for a truly unforgettable and restorative meal.
Perfect for cold days, when you are feeling under the weather, or simply craving a lighter, brighter flavor. So, skip the processed soups and whip up a batch of this homemade goodness.
What is Lemon Chicken Soup?
Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful and nourishing soup that perfectly balances savory and tangy flavors. At its core, it features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a flavorful broth, often with a medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. What sets this soup apart is the addition of lemon juice, which brightens the broth and adds a refreshing citrusy note. Often noodles or rice is included to add heartiness.
The soup is known for its comforting and restorative qualities, making it a popular choice during cold and flu season. The combination of warm broth, protein, and vitamins makes it a perfect pick-me-up. Are you ready to bring this flavorful and comforting bowl to life? Get your ingredients ready and let’s start cooking!
Key Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Soup:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the vegetables.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and chopped.
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Chicken Broth: 8 cups, low sodium preferred.
- Egg Noodles: 8 ounces, uncooked. Orzo or ditalini pasta also works well.
- Lemons: 2 large, for juice and zest. Zest one lemon and juice both.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish.
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for added flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Bay Leaf: 1 large, for adding depth of flavor to the broth. (Remove before serving)
How to Make Lemon Chicken Soup:
This Lemon Chicken Soup is not only packed with flavor but it’s also incredibly easy to make. The recipe begins with sautéing your favorite veggies to build a flavorful base, then adding chicken broth and chicken, simmering until the chicken is cooked through.
The touch of fresh lemon at the end elevates the soup to new heights with its zesty brightness. With a preparation time of just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a pot of comforting goodness ready to enjoy in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken pieces and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the bay leaf.
Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and dill. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Soup:
This isn’t just any chicken soup; it’s a vibrant, flavorful, and immune-boosting powerhouse. The zesty lemon brightens every spoonful, making it irresistible, even when you’re not feeling your best. Making this Lemon Chicken Soup at home is significantly more budget-friendly than ordering it from a restaurant or buying canned versions.
Plus, you can control the ingredients and ensure it’s packed with wholesome goodness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a little heat that balances well with the lemon, or consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creamy richness. Now, forget the store-bought soup and treat yourself to this nourishing and delicious creation. Craving more comfort food? Be sure to check my creamy tomato soup recipe, perfect paired with a grilled cheese sandwich!
What to Serve Lemon Chicken Soup With:
Lemon Chicken Soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are some complementary dishes that enhance the experience:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth is a classic pairing.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s flavors.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For an extra comforting meal, serve with a warm and gooey grilled cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli offer a nutritious side.
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Chicken Soup:
- Broth is Key: Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought low-sodium broth works well too.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Simmer it gently until just cooked through.
- Add Lemon at the End: Adding the lemon juice and zest at the end of cooking preserves their bright, fresh flavor.
- Noodle Choice Matters: Egg noodles are traditional, but other pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well. Be sure to cook the noodles according to package directions to avoid mushiness.
- Use a Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using a rotisserie chicken and shredding it for the soup.
5 Facts about Lemon Chicken Soup:
- Origin: Chicken soup has variations across many cultures, each with its unique blend of ingredients and spices.
- Ancient Remedy: Chicken soup has been used as a remedy for colds and flu since ancient times.
- Immune-Boosting: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and broth provides essential nutrients that can help boost the immune system.
- Greek Influence: The Greek version of lemon chicken soup, known as Avgolemono, often includes a velvety, creamy sauce made with eggs and lemon juice.
- Versatile: Lemon Chicken Soup can be easily adapted with different vegetables, herbs, and pasta shapes to suit personal preferences.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Avoid boiling to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note: The texture of the noodles may change after freezing and thawing.
Final Thoughts:
This Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe brings a burst of citrusy sunshine to your bowl, offering comfort, flavor, and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether you’re battling a cold, craving a light yet satisfying meal, or simply wanting to brighten your day, this soup is the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a homemade bowl of goodness that will warm your heart and soul!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest