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Lemon Chicken Soup

This lemon chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken, bright citrus, and aromatic vegetables simmered in savory broth for a refreshing and comforting dish. It features a clear, vibrant broth with bits of chicken, carrots, and celery, finished with fresh herbs and lemon juice for a lively taste. Perfect for a quick, light meal that feels both soulful and revitalizing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts preferably cooked or leftover
  • 2 lemons lemons for fresh juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably low sodium
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • a handful fresh parsley or dill chopped, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Ladle
  • Juicer or Reamer

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove, let cool slightly, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
  2. While the chicken cooks, juice the lemons using a juicer or reamer, removing seeds and setting the fresh juice aside.
  3. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until you smell a warm aroma.
  4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken to the broth and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to soften further.
  6. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, tasting the broth and adjusting with more lemon, salt, or pepper as desired for brightness and seasoning.
  7. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors combine harmoniously.
  8. Taste again and tweak the seasoning if needed. The broth should be vibrant, with a balance of citrus and savory notes.
  9. Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh herbs for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

For extra heartiness, add cooked noodles or rice. This soup keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days and can be reheated easily.