Comforting Lemon Chicken Soup

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 95  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This comforting lemon chicken soup is a light yet nourishing dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and bright lemon flavor. Perfect for cozy meals, this healthy homemade soup is soothing, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients
    For the Soup Base
  • 500 g boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs (halal, cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 medium carrots (thinly sliced)
  • 2 celery stalks (sliced)
  • 1.5 liters chicken stock (halal, alcohol-free)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp turmeric powder (optional, for color and warmth)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
    • For the Lemon Flavor
  • 1 large lemon (freshly squeezed, about 3–4 tbsp juice)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for stronger aroma)
    • Optional Add-ins
  • 0.5 cup cooked rice or small pasta (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
    Prepare the Ingredients
  1. 1
    Wash and cut the chicken into small, even pieces. Chop all vegetables finely so they cook evenly and release maximum flavor into the soup.
    2. Sauté the Aromatics
  2. 2
    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    3. Cook the Vegetables
  3. 3
    Add sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables slightly soften.
    4. Add Chicken and Seasoning
  4. 4
    Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, turmeric, and dried herbs. Stir well and cook for 4–5 minutes until the chicken turns white on the outside.
    5. Add Stock and Simmer
  5. 5
    Pour in the chicken stock. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
    6. Add Lemon Flavor
  6. 6
    Turn off the heat. Slowly add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring gently. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    7. Final Touch
  7. 7
    If using cooked rice or pasta, add it now and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Note

Always add lemon juice at the end to prevent bitterness.

For a creamier version, whisk 1 egg with lemon juice and slowly temper it with hot soup before adding.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze without pasta or rice for best texture.

Keywords: healthy, comforting, homemade, easy
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/comforting-lemon-chicken-soup/