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+ servings
Lemon Chicken Soup

Zesty Lemon Chicken Soup Ready in Under an Hour

This Lemon Chicken Soup is a quick, healthy, and comforting meal packed with chicken and vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter.
  • 1 cup Diced Carrots Fresh or frozen varieties work.
  • 1 cup Finely Chopped Onion Shallots can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Finely Chopped Celery
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Adjust to taste or use garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Can substitute with white pepper.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Fresh parsley or dried herbs like basil can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Oregano or a mix of Italian herbs can replace it.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 2 Bay Leaves Remove before serving.
For the Protein and Broth
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute thighs for richer flavor.
  • 6 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Can substitute with vegetable stock.
For the Bulk
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Alternatives include rice, quinoa, or low-carb options.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice Can adjust quantity or replace with lime juice.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of diced carrots, 1 finely chopped onion, and 1 cup of finely chopped celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
  1. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well. Add 2 bay leaves, 1 pound of chicken, and 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
  1. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Remove chicken, shred it, and set aside.
Step 4: Add Orzo
  1. Remove bay leaves, stir in 1 cup of dry orzo pasta, and cook until al dente.
Step 5: Final Touches
  1. Return shredded chicken to the pot, stir in the juice of 2 lemons, and heat through before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 180IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Adjust seasoning based on taste preferences.

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