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Lemon Herb Chicken Soup

This bright and nourishing chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken with a flavorful broth infused with fresh lemon juice and herbs. The vegetables are sautéed until soft, creating a fragrant base, while the final dish boasts a clear, vibrant appearance with a soothing, hearty texture. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick, comforting meal with a lively twist.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken leftover roasted or poached chicken
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 2 carrots carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or good-quality store-bought
  • 1 lemon lemon fresh lemon for juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme if available
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish and flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and equipment to keep the process smooth and enjoyable.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to smell fragrant.
  3. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, translucent, and fragrant, about 8 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma intensify and the vegetables turn slightly golden.
  4. Stir in the dried thyme and cook for another minute to release their fragrant oils.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften further.
  6. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the broth, stirring to combine. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
  7. Slice the lemon in half and squeeze in the juice, stirring well. This brightens the broth and adds a lively zing to each spoonful.
  8. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the lemon juice for more brightness if desired.
  9. Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to settle.
  10. Ladle the bright, clear soup into bowls, garnishing each with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, herbal finish.
  11. Enjoy your lemon herb chicken soup hot, savoring the comforting yet lively flavors with each spoonful.