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Dairy-Free Chicken Soup

This hearty chicken soup relies on simmered chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth to create a comforting, nourishing dish. The ingredients blend together during a gentle simmer, resulting in a clear, fragrant broth with tender chicken and soft vegetables, finished with bright herbs and lemon for a fresh finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces bone-in chicken thighs or breasts skinless preferred
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth low-sodium recommended
  • 2 carrots carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery stalks chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral oil
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper season gradually, tasting as you go

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery, and set everything within reach.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers and you can smell it lightly aromatic.
  3. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 8 minutes. They should be slightly translucent and smell sweet.
  4. Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the chicken pieces. Cook until they turn white and develop a light golden edge, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the top.
  6. Season the soup with salt and pepper, then squeeze in the juice of the lemon for brightness. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is tender and flavors meld into a fragrant broth. The vegetables should be soft and the broth clear.
  8. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Remove the chicken, shred it if desired, and return it to the pot.
  9. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Serve the soup hot, ideally with crusty bread or gluten-free crackers on the side.

Notes

This soup is very versatile; feel free to add other vegetables or herbs based on what you have. For extra richness, a splash of olive oil at the end can enhance the flavor.