Craving a soul-warming meal that's both incredibly delicious and nutritious? Look no further than this mouthwatering Lemon Herb Chicken Soup that will revolutionize your dinner routine! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty citrus twist, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that doesn't compromise on health. Whether you're battling a cold, seeking a light yet satisfying meal, or simply want to impress your family with a restaurant-quality soup, this recipe is your secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into small, uniform cubes, finely chopping the onion, and slicing the carrots and celery into thin, even pieces.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray or add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the chicken is evenly browned and cooked through.
- Introduce the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, stirring to combine with the chicken and onions.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are well-submerged.
- Sprinkle the dried thyme over the soup, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir to distribute the herbs and seasonings evenly.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Squeeze the fresh lemon juice into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring to incorporate the bright, citrusy flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your healthy and delicious lemon herb chicken soup!
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: Take your time to dice chicken and chop vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Fresh is Best: While dried thyme works great, consider using fresh thyme if available for an even more vibrant herb flavor.
- Broth Matters: Use high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the richest flavor profile.
- Lemon Love: Add lemon juice at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, fresh taste and prevent it from becoming bitter.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat gently.
- Protein Boost: For extra protein, you can add a handful of cooked quinoa or small pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks - it adds a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
