Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup
A heartwarming homemade soup filled with tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice in a delicious broth, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Use fresh for the best flavor; rotisserie chicken can be a great time-saver.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil A drizzle for sautéing; it adds a lovely richness.
- 2 pieces Carrots Diced.
- 2 pieces Celery Stalks Diced.
- 1 piece Onion Finely chopped; yellow or white works beautifully.
- 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced for flavor.
- 6 cups Chicken Broth Use low-sodium for a healthier twist.
- 1 cup Rice Long grain, basmati, or jasmine rice works well; for healthier version, swap with brown rice or quinoa.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Fresh is best.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Fresh zest offers more vibrant flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Elevates the soup's flavor.
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf Adds warmth and comfort.
- 1/4 cup Parsley Fresh chopped adds color.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and stir for another minute.
- Add the boneless chicken breasts and brown them slightly on both sides.
- Carefully add 6 cups of chicken broth, followed by the dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in 1 cup of your chosen rice. Cook for another 10 minutes.
- Add in the fresh lemon juice and zest, adjusting to your taste.
- Just before serving, stir in a generous handful of chopped parsley.
Notes
You can add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition. For creaminess, stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add spice, and nutmeg or a splash of white wine can create a festive twist.