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Bright Lemon Chicken Soup

This homemade chicken soup combines shredded cooked chicken, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon to create a comforting yet lively dish. The soup is enriched with cream for a velvety texture and finished with bright citrus notes, resulting in a vibrant, nourishing bowl that adapts to your mood and pantry. It features a hearty broth with tender vegetables and a silky finish.
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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: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks celery, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 zest lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to gently crackle.
  2. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. The onions should be soft and slightly golden.
  3. Stir in chopped carrots and celery, cooking until they start to soften and release their sweet aroma, about 8 minutes. The vegetables will become tender but still hold some texture.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a savory aroma.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, then bring to a gentle simmer. Add shredded cooked chicken and a bay leaf, letting everything cook together for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, then stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and chopped herbs. Warm the soup through without boiling, about 2-3 minutes, to keep it velvety and flavorful.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, tasting and adjusting until balanced and bright.
  8. Use a ladle to serve the soup hot, garnished with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy the comforting, vibrant flavors in every spoonful!

Notes

Feel free to customize with hot sauce or additional herbs for varied flavor profiles. For an extra hearty version, add cooked rice or noodles before serving.