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Bright Lemon Chicken Soup

This chicken soup features a nourishing broth with shredded cooked chicken, tender vegetables, and fresh herbs, all brightened with a squeeze of lemon. The dish is simmered to develop deep flavors and finished with a lively citrus boost, resulting in a clear, comforting bowl with vibrant notes and a hearty texture.
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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: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth full-bodied
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced, plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs parsley and thyme, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. The mixture should smell warm and look slightly softened.
  3. Add sliced carrots and celery to the pot, stir to coat with oil, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching for bubbles just beginning to form around the edges.
  5. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and chopped herbs, then squeeze in the juice of a lemon, stirring to combine everything evenly. Reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to become tender.
  6. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if desired, to brighten the flavors.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a fresh squeeze of lemon for an added burst of brightness.

Notes

For extra depth, add a bay leaf during simmering and remove before serving. Leftover soup flavors improve after resting for a few hours. Use rotisserie chicken for quick assembly.