Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful, versatile dish that blends succulent chicken with colorful vegetables and a hint of lemon zest. Ideal for any season, this soup provides cozy warmth during winter and a refreshing taste in summer. Simple to make and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large celery stalk, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup orzo pasta, dried and uncooked
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook the vegetables until they are tender, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the orzo pasta, bay leaf, sprig of rosemary, and sprig of oregano.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken:
- While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Combine and Finish:
- Remove the bay leaf, rosemary sprig, and oregano sprig from the pot. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Stir in the lemon juice and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh minced parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the bright, comforting flavors of this lemon chicken soup.
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful combination of savory and tangy flavors that make for a perfect meal any time of year. The tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and zingy lemon juice create a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This easy-to-make soup is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nourishing choice for you and your family. Enjoy this flavorful soup as a comforting lunch or dinner, and savor the delightful mix of flavors.