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Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

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This Lemon Chicken Soup recipe is a comforting and zesty dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, rice, and a splash of lemon. It's perfect for a light but satisfying meal, and can be thickened with egg yolks for a creamy texture. Keywords: lemon chicken soup, chicken soup recipe, light soup, zesty chicken soup.

 

Ingredients

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  • For the Soup:
    • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with chicken thighs)
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 2 medium carrots, diced
    • 2 ribs celery, diced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
    • 1/2 cup rice (or orzo pasta, couscous)
    • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (adjust to taste)
    • Zest from 1 lemon
    • 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
    • 1 bay leaf
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • For Thickening (Optional):
    • 2 egg yolks, whisked (optional for creaminess)
    • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, add the chicken breasts, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
  • Stir in the rice (or orzo/couscous), lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the rice is tender.
  • For a thicker soup, whisk the egg yolks and temper with a bit of hot broth, then slowly stir into the soup. Alternatively, mix cornstarch with water and stir in.
  • Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute orzo or couscous for the rice, depending on your texture preference.
  • Adjust lemon juice based on how tangy you prefer the soup.
  • For a creamier texture, use egg yolks or cornstarch, but it's also delicious without thickening.

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