Description
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup features tender chicken thighs simmered with fresh carrots, celery, garlic, herbs, and bright lemon in a light vegetable broth. This refreshing yet comforting soup combines zesty citrus and aromatic herbs with wholesome vegetables and optional grains, creating a nourishing and naturally flavorful meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped coarsely
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped coarsely
- Zest of 2 fresh lemons
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
Liquids & Broth
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
Grains (Optional)
- 1/2 cup brown rice or orzo (or substitute with quinoa)
Other
- 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the carrots, celery, and garlic finely to ensure even cooking and full flavor release. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Zest and juice the lemons fresh. Chop the dill and parsley coarsely.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant but not browned.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and lightly sear on all sides until they develop a hint of color, locking in juices and adding depth to the soup.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate Grains and Natural Gelling Agent: Stir in the brown rice or orzo (or your preferred grain) along with the natural gelling agent. Continue simmering for about 15 more minutes, until the grains are tender and the broth has a silky texture.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and parsley. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for a few minutes to develop bright, fresh flavors before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness during simmering.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.
- Do not omit the natural gelling agent to enhance the broth’s smooth mouthfeel.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste by starting with less and adding more at the end for balanced brightness.
- Keep the broth at a gentle simmer rather than boiling for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, Chicken Soup, Lemon Soup, Healthy Soup, Gluten Free, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe
