Easy Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe - Warm, Comforting Dish

Lemon chicken soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that has gained popularity for its zesty and refreshing taste. Perfect for a cozy night in or a healthy meal option, this soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a burst of lemon. Whether you're a home cook, a health enthusiast, or simply a lover of soups, this guide will help you create a delicious bowl of lemon chicken soup right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this delightful lemon chicken soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) uncooked rice or orzo pasta
• 2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse the chicken breasts/thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Marinate the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Finely chop the onion.
2. Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Slice the carrots and celery stalks into thin, even pieces.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced carrots and celery. Continue sautéing for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Adding the Broth and Chicken

1. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water into the pot.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces and bay leaves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Cooking the Rice/Orzo

1. Add 1 cup of uncooked rice or orzo pasta to the pot.
2. Continue to simmer until the rice/pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Flavoring

Step 1: Adding the Lemon

1. Zest two large lemons and set the zest aside.
2. Juice the lemons and add the juice to the soup.
3. Stir well and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 2: Final Touches

1. Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
2. Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Allow the soup to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Serving

1. Ladle the lemon chicken soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread if desired.

Health Benefits

Lemon chicken soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins: Carrots and celery add valuable vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A and potassium.
• Boosts Immunity: Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which can help strengthen the immune system.
• Low in Calories: This soup is a light yet satisfying meal option, perfect for those mindful of their calorie intake.

Conclusion

Ready to try this delicious and healthy lemon chicken soup recipe? Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness. We’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations—feel free to share your experience with us! Enjoy your cooking journey and savor every spoonful of this delightful soup.