Name: Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 chicken breasts; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 yellow onion; 2 carrots; 1 celery stalk; 4 garlic cloves; ½ tsp dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth; 1½ cups water; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 bay leaf; 1 fresh rosemary sprig; 1 fresh oregano sprig; 1 lemon juice; 2 tsp Fresh Parsley

Imagine a comforting bowl of lemon chicken soup, packed with tender pieces of chicken and a delightful mix of orzo pasta, vegetables, and fresh herbs. This recipe brings together the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory depth of chicken broth, creating a soup that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Photos of Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

For this recipe, a few ingredients might not be staples in every kitchen. Orzo pasta is a small, rice-shaped pasta that's essential for the soup's texture. Fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano add a burst of flavor but may not always be on hand, so make sure to pick them up at the supermarket. Lemon juice is crucial for its bright, tangy taste, so fresh lemon is preferable.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Soup

Olive oil: A light, healthy oil used for sautéing and adding rich flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds a creamy texture and rich taste to the soup.

Chicken breasts: The main protein, providing tenderness and flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Carrots: Contributes sweetness and color to the soup.

Celery stalk: Adds a subtle, fresh flavor.

Garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with aromatic depth.

Dried thyme: A pungent herb that enhances savory flavors.

Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing rich, savory flavor.

Water: Used to adjust the soup's consistency.

Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that adds body to the soup.

Bay leaf: Adds a subtle, herbal aroma.

Rosemary sprig: Infuses the soup with a pine-like, aromatic flavor.

Oregano sprig: Adds a robust, earthy flavor.

Lemon juice: Provides a bright, tangy taste.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and garnish.

One reader, Jorge Vaught says:

This lemon chicken soup is a delightful blend of flavors! The tender chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon create a comforting and refreshing dish. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Jorge Vaught

Essential Techniques for Making Lemon Chicken Soup

Yes.

How to shred chicken: Use two forks to pull apart the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. How to scrape browned bits: Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any caramelized bits of food, which adds flavor to the soup.

How To Make Lemon Chicken Soup

A heartwarming soup with a tangy taste, this lemon chicken soup is made with chicken breasts tossed with flavorful spices and drizzled with zesty lemon.

Preparation: 7 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 32 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
2tbspunsalted butter ,divided
2chicken breasts,boneless skinless, trimmed of fat
½tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
1yellow onion,medium, diced
2carrots ,peeled and diced, medium
1celery stalk,large, diced
4garlic cloves,minced
½tspdried thyme
4cupschicken broth,reduced sodium
1½cupswater
1cuporzo pasta,dried, uncooked
1bay leaf
1fresh rosemary sprig
1fresh oregano sprig
1lemon juice
2tspfresh parsley ,minced

Instructions

Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to a large dutch oven or stockpot and heat over medium heat. Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to a dutch oven and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set chicken aside on a plate.
Add remaining butter to a dutch oven, then add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until soft for about 3 minutes. Stir in dried thyme.
Pour in chicken broth and water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits in the bottom of the dutch oven. Bring to a boil.
While the soup is coming up to a boil, shred chicken using two forks. Once the soup is starting to boil, stir in shredded chicken, orzo, bay leaf, and add sprigs of rosemary and oregano.
Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until orzo is tender.
Remove and discard bay leaf and rosemary or oregano sprigs. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Nutrition

Calories: 311.07kcal
Fat: 13.99g
Saturated Fat: 4.97g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.05g
Carbohydrates: 27.02g
Fiber: 3.06g
Sugar: 5.21g
Protein: 19.54g
Cholesterol: 52.10mg
Sodium: 849.15mg
Calcium: 77.53mg
Potassium: 524.26mg
Iron: 2.93mg
Vitamin A: 225.39µg
Vitamin C: 8.28mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Lemon Chicken Soup

To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy, avoid overcrowding the dutch oven. Cook the chicken breasts in batches if necessary, allowing each piece to achieve a golden brown crust. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents steaming, which can make the chicken rubbery.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use rotisserie chicken: Substitute cooked chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken to save cooking time.

Instant broth: Use pre-made chicken broth to skip the step of making it from scratch.

Quick orzo: Cook the orzo pasta separately and add it to the soup at the end to reduce simmering time.

Lemon juice prep: Squeeze the lemon juice ahead of time and store it in a small container.

Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, buttery flavor and higher smoke point.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat without the black specks.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and a slightly sweeter taste.
celery stalk - Substitute with fennel stalk: Fennel provides a similar crunch with a slight anise flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor in a pinch.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a similar earthy flavor.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar base flavor.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more depth of flavor.
orzo pasta - Substitute with rice: Rice provides a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme sprig: Thyme sprig offers a similar aromatic quality.
fresh rosemary sprig - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can provide a similar flavor.
fresh oregano sprig - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a similar flavor profile.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and brightness.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro offers a similar fresh, herbaceous note.

How to Beautifully Present This Soup

Serve in a pristine white bowl: The contrast of the lemon chicken soup against a clean, white bowl will make the vibrant colors of the carrots, celery, and parsley pop, enhancing visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few leaves of fresh parsley on top of the soup just before serving. This not only adds a burst of color but also an aromatic touch.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish the dish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to add a glossy sheen and a hint of richness.
Add a lemon twist: Place a thin slice of lemon or a twisted lemon peel on the edge of the bowl to highlight the citrus notes in the soup.
Use a shallow bowl: Opt for a shallow, wide bowl to allow the ingredients to spread out, showcasing the orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and vegetables evenly.
Serve with a side of crusty bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread on a separate plate. This adds texture and a complementary flavor to the dish.
Sprinkle with freshly cracked pepper: Just before serving, add a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the aroma and provide a subtle kick.
Use microgreens for a modern touch: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the soup for a contemporary and sophisticated presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lemon Chicken Soup

Dutch oven: A large, heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for browning chicken and simmering soup.
Stockpot: An alternative to the dutch oven, useful for making large batches of soup.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients and scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Plate: Used to set aside the cooked chicken breasts before shredding.
Forks: Essential for shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables and garlic.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, butter, salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure the chicken broth, water, and orzo pasta.
Citrus juicer: Handy for extracting juice from the lemon.
Ladle: Useful for serving the soup into bowls.
Tongs: Helpful for turning the chicken breasts while browning them in the pot.

Storing and Freezing Lemon Chicken Soup: A Guide

Allow the lemon chicken soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
For storing in the refrigerator: Place the container or bag in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
For freezing: Place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasonings if needed, as flavors may slightly diminish during storage.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting lemon chicken soup whenever the craving strikes!

How To Reheat Leftover Lemon Chicken Soup

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover lemon chicken soup to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is heated evenly without boiling, which can cause the orzo pasta to become mushy.
Microwave method: pour the desired amount of leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover lemon chicken soup to a slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is ideal if you want to reheat a large batch of soup without having to monitor it closely. It also allows the flavors to meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. This method is suitable if you want to reheat a large quantity of soup and have extra time to spare.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well to ensure even heat distribution. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage.

Interesting Fact About Lemon Chicken Soup

A random fact about this lemon chicken soup recipe is that the addition of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also provides a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.

Is Making Lemon Chicken Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This lemon chicken soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like chicken breasts, vegetables (onion, carrots, celery), and orzo pasta are affordable and widely available. Fresh herbs and lemon add a burst of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the nutritional value and delicious taste, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is Lemon Chicken Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The lemon chicken soup recipe is relatively healthy, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The use of chicken breast provides lean protein, while the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic) add essential vitamins and minerals. The recipe also incorporates herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano, which offer additional health benefits and flavor without adding calories.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
Use whole wheat orzo pasta to increase the fiber content
Add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost the nutrient density of the soup
Reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the added salt accordingly

To further enhance the nutritional value of this lemon chicken soup, consider the following suggestions:

Include additional vitamin-rich vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms
Add a source of healthy fats, such as sliced avocado or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, when serving
Incorporate a handful of cooked quinoa or brown rice to increase the fiber and complex carbohydrate content
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for added flavor and potential health benefits
Serve the soup with a side salad or a piece of whole grain bread to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Soup

This lemon chicken soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs creates a comforting and hearty dish. The addition of orzo pasta adds a satisfying bite, while the lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, making it refreshing yet savory. The use of both olive oil and butter provides a rich base, and the fresh parsley at the end adds a touch of freshness. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful soup perfect for any season.

Enhance Your Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Imagine dipping warm, buttery breadsticks into the zesty broth of your lemon chicken soup. The garlic and parmesan flavors will perfectly complement the citrusy notes, creating a harmonious balance that will make your taste buds sing.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Crispy brussels sprouts roasted to perfection with smoky bacon bits will add a delightful crunch and a savory depth to your meal. The slight bitterness of the sprouts will contrast beautifully with the bright, lemony soup.

Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed in a tangy vinaigrette will bring a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table, enhancing the lemon chicken soup experience.

Herb-Infused Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with a blend of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint will provide a light and nutritious side. The earthy flavors of the herbs will meld seamlessly with the vibrant notes of the lemon chicken soup.

Lemon Panna Cotta: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a silky lemon panna cotta. The creamy texture and citrusy flavor will echo the lemon chicken soup, creating a cohesive and satisfying dining experience.

Similar Soup Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Greek Avgolemono Soup: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with Greek avgolemono soup. This traditional soup features chicken, rice, and a luscious lemon-egg mixture that creates a velvety texture. A delightful twist on classic chicken soup!

Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup: Savor the flavors of Tuscany with this nourishing white bean and kale soup. Packed with white beans, kale, and aromatic herbs, this vegetable-rich soup is both hearty and healthy. A perfect way to warm up on a chilly day!

Chicken Tortilla Soup: Spice up your dinner routine with chicken tortilla soup. This zesty soup features chicken, corn, black beans, and a blend of bold spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips. A fiesta in a bowl!

Minestrone Soup: Dive into a classic Italian favorite with minestrone soup. Bursting with vegetables, pasta, and beans, this hearty soup is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a satisfying and nutritious meal!

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement This Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs beautifully with a rich filling made from cream cheese, parmesan, and herbs. Sautéed garlic and onions add depth, while a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top provides a satisfying crunch. Bake until golden brown and serve warm for an irresistible start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with Caprese Skewers. These vibrant skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a hint of olive oil for a simple yet elegant appetizer. The combination of flavors and textures makes this a refreshing and visually appealing dish.

Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Pie: Elevate your culinary repertoire with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd. The crowning glory is a cloud-like meringue, whipped to perfection and lightly toasted for a golden finish. The contrast between the tart lemon filling and the sweet, airy meringue creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for a refreshing end to your meal, this pie is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.

Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake: Indulge in the creamy delight of a Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake. This dessert combines the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the sweet burst of fresh blueberries. A graham cracker crust provides a crunchy base, while the cheesecake filling is infused with lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist. Topped with a luscious blueberry compote, this cheesecake is a showstopper that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why trust this Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe:

This lemon chicken soup recipe is a must-try for its perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of olive oil, butter, and fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano ensures a rich and aromatic base. The addition of orzo pasta makes it hearty, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing zest. With simple, wholesome ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is both reliable and delicious, making it a trusted choice for any home cook.

Have you tried this Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and might even add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just keep in mind that the orzo might absorb more liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a bit more broth or water when reheating.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Sure thing! If you don't have fresh rosemary and oregano, you can use dried herbs. Just use about a teaspoon of each since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can easily make this soup gluten-free by substituting the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze it. However, the orzo might get a bit mushy when thawed and reheated. If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it when you reheat the soup.