This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is bright, tangy, and loaded with flavor! It features juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a zingy lemon kick that warms you up from the inside.
I love how this soup is both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for any day when you need a little sunshine on your plate! 🍋 Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is essential for sautéing the vegetables. Extra virgin olive oil gives a great flavor, but you can substitute with canola or avocado oil if needed.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps manage salt levels. Homemade broth is excellent if you have it, but store-bought is perfectly fine. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. Feel free to use poached chicken or even chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Lemons: Fresh juiced lemons elevate the soup! If you can’t find fresh ones, bottled lemon juice works, but the flavor won’t be as bright. You can also try lime juice as a substitute.
Orzo Pasta: I love adding orzo for texture. You can skip the pasta or use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Tender and Flavorful?
Getting your vegetables just right is key to a delicious soup. Sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness, so don’t rush this step! Here’s how:
- Start with medium heat and add olive oil.
- With onions, carrots, and celery, cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic last as it cooks quickly; just 1-2 minutes will do!
Taking time to properly sauté will add a layer of depth to your soup’s flavor!
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached breast)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup orzo or small pasta (optional)
- 2 lemons, juiced (plus lemon slices for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you should set aside about 35 minutes to have this comforting dish ready for you and your loved ones.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables until they become tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is important for building the soup’s flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the veggies are tender, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the delicious aroma. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Bring in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the soup really starts to come together!
4. Mix in Chicken and Herbs:
After the broth is boiling, stir in the cooked shredded chicken, dried oregano, and thyme. Lower the heat and let it all simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can blend nicely.
5. Optional Pasta Time:
If you’re using orzo or another small pasta, add it to the pot now. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
6. Add Greens:
Next, toss in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until the greens are wilted. They add a lovely color and nutrition to the soup!
7. Finish with Lemon:
Remove the pot from heat and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. Taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and make it pretty by garnishing with chopped parsley and a slice of lemon on top. The colors will brighten your day!
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the soup warm and enjoy the vibrant, comforting flavors of your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little comfort food.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or poached chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and toss it into the pot when the recipe calls for cooked shredded chicken. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a little extra broth if it thickens up!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
