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Brightened Chicken Soup with Lemon and Herbs

This comforting homemade chicken soup combines shredded cooked chicken, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon to elevate the classic dish. The soup features a velvety cream base, tender vegetables, and bright, aromatic flavors, finished with a rich yet refreshing appearance. It’s quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable for a cozy, nourishing meal.
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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: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 carrots carrots chopped
  • 2 celery stalks celery chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice zest and juice of one lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release sweet aromas, about 8 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly golden.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken and a bay leaf if desired. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Remove the bay leaf, then stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and chopped herbs. Warm the soup through without boiling to preserve the cream's richness and bright flavors.
  6. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped herbs and a lemon wedge if you like.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or more fresh herbs. Use leftover cooked chicken for convenience. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling.