Description
Lemon Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the zest of fresh lemons with tender chicken, creating a delightful and invigorating meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and healthy ingredients, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, this versatile soup can be ready in under an hour. The citrusy flavor of lemon enhances the comforting broth, while packed vegetables and lean chicken provide nourishment. Enjoy this refreshing soup on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- ½ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in spices: black pepper, parsley, thyme, salt, and bay leaves. Place chicken breasts into the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth; ensure chicken is submerged. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks before returning it to the pot along with dry orzo pasta.
- Cook until orzo is tender (about 10 minutes). Stir in lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg