Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. With its refreshing lemony taste and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it with rice, pasta, or zucchini noodles for a complete experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in the instant pot, crock pot, or on the stove, making it adaptable to your cooking style.
- Flavorful and Zesty: The fresh lemon juice adds a bright flavor that makes every spoonful refreshing and delicious.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it with pasta or on its own, this soup fits various tastes and dietary preferences.
- Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup will warm you up and make you feel right at home.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make preparing this Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe even simpler. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot or Crock Pot
- Large Pot (if cooking on the stove)
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot or Crock Pot: These appliances make cooking times faster while infusing flavors beautifully.
- Large Pot: Essential for simmering all the ingredients evenly if you choose to cook on the stove.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Having a good knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which enhances presentation and cooking times.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 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)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 bay leaves
For the Protein
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Broth and Pasta
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
For the Lemon Flavor
- ½ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
How to Make Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping all vegetables. Dice the carrots, chop the onion, and finely slice the celery. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In your instant pot or large pot over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add diced carrots, chopped onion, and celery.
3. Sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Your Cooker
Add the following to your pot:
1. Black pepper, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, bay leaves.
2. Place the boneless chicken breasts in as well.
3. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
If using an instant pot:
1. Secure the lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
2. Allow natural release for about 10 minutes before opening.
If using a stovetop:
1. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
2. Simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Finish with Orzo and Lemon Juice
After removing chicken from pot:
1. Shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
2. Return shredded chicken back into the soup along with dry orzo pasta.
3. Let cook for an additional 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
4. Stir in fresh squeezed lemon juice before serving.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe!
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting soup that will impress your family and friends.
With Rice
- Serve the soup over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the lemony broth, enhancing each spoonful.
With Pasta
- Toss in some cooked pasta, such as orzo or small shells, right before serving. This adds texture and makes the soup more substantial.
With Zucchini Noodles
- For a healthier option, serve with spiralized zucchini noodles. They add a fresh crunch and keep the dish light.
With Crusty Bread
- Accompany the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or dill. This adds color and an extra layer of flavor to your soup.
With Lemon Wedges
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zing. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more.
How to Perfect Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
To ensure your Lemon Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your soup.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Add Broth Gradually: If you prefer a thicker soup, start with less broth and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
- Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Pairing your Lemon Chicken Soup with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Bread
A crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up all that flavorful broth.Garden Salad
A light garden salad with mixed greens offers freshness and a nice contrast to the warm soup.Roasted Vegetables
Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and make for a colorful plate alongside your soup.Quinoa Salad
A protein-rich quinoa salad provides a nutritious side that complements the flavors of lemon chicken.Stuffed Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans offer a hearty addition that is both tasty and filling.Couscous
Fluffy couscous can be served on the side, soaking up any extra broth from your soup while adding texture.Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combination that works well with lemon chicken’s brightness.Vegetable Chips
Crispy vegetable chips provide a crunchy element that enhances the overall dining experience while being fun to eat!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold ingredients: Using fresh ingredients is key. Avoid using old or expired vegetables and herbs, as they can affect the overall flavor.
- Bold broth choice: Not using low sodium chicken broth can make your soup too salty. Always choose low sodium options to control the saltiness.
- Bold cooking time: Overcooking the chicken can lead to dry meat. Follow the cooking time closely to keep it tender and juicy.
- Bold pasta timing: Adding orzo too early can cause it to become mushy. Add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
- Bold lemon juice: Skipping fresh lemon juice will reduce the soup’s brightness. Always use freshly squeezed for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for the best quality.
Freezing Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe.
How long does it take to make Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe?
The total time to make this soup is about 60 minutes, including prep and cook time.
Can I use other types of pasta in Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or even gluten-free options if needed.
Is Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe healthy?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean chicken, making it a healthy choice.
What can I serve with Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe?
You can enjoy this soup with rice, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for busy days. Give it a try today!
Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Lemon Chicken Soup is a refreshing and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty lemon flavor that brightens each spoonful.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 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
- Prepare vegetables by washing and chopping the carrots, onion, celery, and garlic.
- In an Instant Pot or large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the carrots, onion, and celery until the onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Add black pepper, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, bay leaves, and chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth.
- If using an Instant Pot: Secure lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes; allow natural release for about 10 minutes before opening. If using stovetop: Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken from pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken to the pot along with dry orzo pasta. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the orzo is tender. Stir in fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop/Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg