This warm and comforting Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for cozy days! Loaded with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a zesty lemon twist, it’s a delicious boost for your mood.
Who doesn’t love a bowl of soup that smells this good? I often make a big pot to enjoy all week. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a happy meal! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: It’s great for sautéing vegetables, adding a nice flavor. If you’re out, any cooking oil like canola or avocado oil works too!
Onion: A medium onion is key for flavor in the soup. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or even a bit of onion powder can substitute.
Chicken Broth: This is the base of the soup. Homemade broth is amazing if you have it! Otherwise, low-sodium store-bought broth keeps things flavorful without too much salt.
Cooked Chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great taste. If you have leftover chicken, that’s a fantastic option too!
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can substitute them with whole wheat noodles, gluten-free options, or even rice for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has the Perfect Flavor Balance?
Developing the flavor in your soup is crucial! Follow these steps:
- Start with sautéing onions until they’re soft; this builds a flavorful base.
- Don’t rush the cooking time. Allow the broth to simmer so the carrots soften and the flavors blend perfectly.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A little extra lemon juice or salt can make a big difference!
Feel free to experiment with herbs too! Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can add a lovely touch if you have them on hand.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (for garnish and added flavor)
- 4 ounces egg noodles or any preferred noodle
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of 35 minutes. It’s a quick and joyful experience to create this delightful bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent—this usually takes about 4 minutes. The smell will make your kitchen inviting!
2. Add Garlic and Carrots:
Next, toss in the minced garlic along with the sliced carrots. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to keep everything from sticking. You want the garlic to release its aroma without burning!
3. Bring in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a boil. This creates the delicious base for your soup. It’s starting to come together beautifully!
4. Add Chicken and Seasonings:
Once boiling, add the shredded cooked chicken, black pepper, optional lemon pepper seasoning, and dried parsley. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The flavors will meld together and make the soup even better.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes. You want them nice and tender, perfectly soaking up all that flavorful broth!
6. Finish with Lemon:
Before you take it off the heat, stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for the perfect balance.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy the refreshing, peppery lemon flavor combined with hearty chicken and noodles. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
This soup is not just delicious but also a classic that warms your heart. Enjoy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. The quickest way is to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, cook it thoroughly before adding to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or cooked lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’ll still be a hearty and delicious soup!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some broth, so you can add a splash of water or more broth when reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, celery, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and cook them with the onions and garlic to ensure they’re tender and flavorful!
