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Quick Lemon Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made with shredded cooked chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a bright splash of lemon, all simmered in savory broth. It has a clear, nourishing appearance with tender ingredients and a fresh flavor profile, perfect for a speedy, satisfying meal. The final dish is warm, lightly tangy, and topped with fresh herbs, offering a balance of comfort and brightness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken leftover roasted or boiled chicken
  • 4 cups chicken broth store-bought or homemade
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill chopped finely
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and equipment, setting everything within reach for smooth cooking.
  2. Pour a splash of oil into a large saucepan and warm it over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to smell fragrant.
  3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced celery to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become fragrant, translucent, and slightly tender, with a gentle sizzling sound.
  4. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, allowing it to warm through and mingle with the aromatics, about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth should bubble softly without vigorous boiling.
  6. Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to soften just enough to retain a slight crunch.
  7. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.
  8. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into the soup, stirring well to brighten the flavors and add a fresh zing.
  9. Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the soup, giving it a final stir to distribute the herbs evenly and add a splash of color.
  10. Use a ladle to serve the steaming soup into bowls, ensuring each gets a good mix of vegetables, chicken, and broth.
  11. Enjoy your warm, bright, and comforting chicken soup with crusty bread or crackers on the side.