The Best Lemon Chicken Soup: A Bright, Comforting Bowl of Sunshine

Lemon chicken soup is a bright and refreshing dish that warms the soul. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. The tangy lemon, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables create a delightful combination that brings comfort and nourishment.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is a wholesome and easy way to enjoy a hearty soup. It’s packed with fresh flavors and healthy ingredients, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare on busy days, whether you use an instant pot, crockpot, or stovetop.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup zucchini noodles (or orzo/rice)
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 carrot (sliced)
• 1 celery stalk (sliced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to make it

1. In your instant pot, crockpot, or stovetop, heat a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened.
3. Add the chicken breast, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. If using instant pot, seal and cook on high for 10 minutes. For crockpot, cook on low for 6 hours. For stovetop, simmer on low heat until chicken is cooked.
5. Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and add zucchini noodles or orzo/rice. Cook until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to serve it

Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with warm bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to store it

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool down before freezing.

Helpful tips

• For a creamier soup, consider adding a splash of heavy cream right before serving.
• Adjust the lemon juice to your taste; more juice adds extra tanginess.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of zucchini noodles or orzo/rice.

Optional variations

• Substitute chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
• Use different vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition and a change in flavor.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. When using an instant pot, you can increase the cooking time to around 15-20 minutes.

What can I do if the soup is too salty?
If the soup tastes too salty, you can add a little more water or chicken broth to dilute it. Adding a peeled potato while it cooks can also help absorb some of the saltiness.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

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