If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing soup, this Lemon Chicken Soup is the perfect choice! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a bright citrusy kick from lemon juice. This soup is light, hearty, and perfect for any season—whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nourishing boost when feeling under the weather.
Want more delicious recipes like this? Subscribe now for the latest culinary inspiration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright & Refreshing: The lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Comforting & Hearty: A soothing broth with tender chicken and veggies.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Easy to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- Chicken Breast (1 lb, cooked & shredded) – Lean protein for a hearty soup.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and depth to the broth.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – For a flavorful base.
- Carrots (2, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and color.
- Celery (2 stalks, diced) – A classic aromatic vegetable.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings a deep, savory note.
- Chicken Broth (6 cups) – The heart of the soup, full of flavor.
- Lemon Juice (¼ cup, freshly squeezed) – Brightens up the dish.
- Lemon Zest (1 tsp) – Enhances the citrusy aroma.
- Bay Leaf (1 large) – Infuses a subtle herbal note.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust for seasoning.
- Orzo Pasta (¾ cup, uncooked) – A small pasta that absorbs the flavors.
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped) – Adds freshness and nutrients.
- Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped) – A burst of herby flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle
- Zester or grater
How to Make Lemon Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chicken & Orzo
- Stir in the shredded chicken and orzo pasta.
- Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon & Spinach
- Reduce the heat to low and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped spinach.
- Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!
What to Serve with This Soup
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Soup
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: It makes all the difference in flavor!
- Shred Chicken Easily: Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a rich texture.
- Want a Low-Carb Version? Swap orzo for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months (leave out the orzo before freezing).
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut—just shred and add it in.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then stir in the lemon juice and spinach at the end.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Swap orzo for rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken Soup is light yet comforting, bursting with fresh citrus and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a nutritious meal prep option, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Love this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your delicious soup photos with us!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 550mg
If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing soup, this Lemon Chicken Soup is the perfect choice! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a bright citrusy kick from lemon juice. This soup is light, hearty, and perfect for any season—whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nourishing boost when feeling under the weather.
Want more delicious recipes like this? Subscribe now for the latest culinary inspiration!
Print
Lemon Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing soup, this Lemon Chicken Soup is the perfect choice! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a bright citrusy kick from lemon juice. This soup is light, hearty, and perfect for any season—whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nourishing boost when feeling under the weather.
Want more delicious recipes like this? Subscribe now for the latest culinary inspiration!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
-
Chicken Breast (1 lb, cooked & shredded) – Lean protein for a hearty soup.
-
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and depth to the broth.
-
Onion (1 small, diced) – For a flavorful base.
-
Carrots (2, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and color.
-
Celery (2 stalks, diced) – A classic aromatic vegetable.
-
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings a deep, savory note.
-
Chicken Broth (6 cups) – The heart of the soup, full of flavor.
-
Lemon Juice (¼ cup, freshly squeezed) – Brightens up the dish.
-
Lemon Zest (1 tsp) – Enhances the citrusy aroma.
-
Bay Leaf (1 large) – Infuses a subtle herbal note.
-
Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth.
-
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust for seasoning.
-
Orzo Pasta (¾ cup, uncooked) – A small pasta that absorbs the flavors.
-
Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped) – Adds freshness and nutrients.
-
Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped) – A burst of herby flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
-
Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Soup
-
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper.
-
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chicken & Orzo
-
Stir in the shredded chicken and orzo pasta.
-
Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon & Spinach
-
Reduce the heat to low and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped spinach.
-
Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
-
Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
-
Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!
Notes
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: It makes all the difference in flavor!
Shred Chicken Easily: Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a rich texture.
Want a Low-Carb Version? Swap orzo for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
