Go Back

Lemon-Infused Creamy Chicken Soup

This comforting soup combines tender chicken breasts with a velvety cream base, brightened by fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish. The dish features a smooth, creamy texture with a vibrant citrus note, making it perfect for chilly evenings or quick, cozy meals. It’s simple to customize with herbs and vegetables for a personalized touch.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homestyle
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 500 g diced chicken breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 whole lemon for fresh juice
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • fresh chopped parsley or thyme for garnish

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Lemon squeezer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and equipment. Set a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and melt the butter until it’s bubbling softly, and smells nutty.
  2. Add chopped onions and celery to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the diced chicken breasts, cooking until they turn lightly golden and are cooked through, roughly 7-9 minutes. The chicken should feel firm but tender.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  5. Add the heavy cream to the pot, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat slightly and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
  6. While the soup simmers, roll the lemon on your counter to loosen the juice, then cut it in half and squeeze out the fresh lemon juice using a lemon squeezer. Add the juice to the soup, tasting and adjusting for brightness.
  7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your preference. Let it simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to slightly thicken and develop flavor.
  8. Taste the soup and add more lemon juice or seasoning if needed. The soup should be creamy, bright, and steaming hot.
  9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme, and a drizzle of extra cream if desired. Enjoy the comforting, zesty bowl!

Notes

Adjust lemon and seasoning to taste for perfect brightness. Use half-and-half for a lighter version, or add extra herbs for more flavor.