Description
Finding comfort in a bowl of warm soup can be one of life’s simplest yet most profound pleasures. The Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings warmth to your heart and home. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, returning from a long day, or simply seeking solace in familiar flavors, this soup has a special way of nurturing both the body and soul. Its vibrant lemony essence and tender chicken shreds create an inviting aroma that welcomes you to the kitchen, encouraging moments of connection and shared laughter around the table.
Ingredients
- Chicken broth: About 6 cups, for a rich and flavorful base.
- Diced chicken: 2 cups, cooked and shredded, to provide protein and heartiness.
- Lemon juice: 1/4 cup, for that zesty brightness.
- Orzo pasta: 1 cup, to give the soup a delightful texture.
- Carrots: 1 cup, diced, for sweetness and color.
- Celery: 1 cup, diced, to add a crisp crunch.
- Eggs: 2, for a creamy finish when whisked in.
- Dill: Fresh, about 2 tablespoons, to enhance the soup with herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Instructions
Start by heating up a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This is where magic begins. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, allowing them to cook until fragrant and translucent. Stir occasionally; you want them to soften but not brown. This initial step sets the flavor base for your soup, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.
Next, introduce bite-sized pieces of chicken breast into the pot. As they cook, stir them gently to ensure they get coated in the lovely oil and seasoned bits. Listen for that satisfying sizzle! Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it locks in the flavors before adding any liquid.
Now it’s time for the star of the show: the chicken broth. Gradually pour in around 6 cups, ensuring to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This will enhance the soup’s richness. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. The longer it simmers, the more robust that flavor base will become.
As the soup simmers, introduce diced carrots and celery. These veggies not only add texture but also a subtle sweetness that complements the broth beautifully. Let them simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender yet still maintain a little crunch.
Here comes a burst of brightness! Grate the zest of a fresh lemon directly into the pot. This is the secret to giving your soup that lovely tang. Stir it in, and let it mingle with the rest of the ingredients for about 5 minutes. You’ll start to notice the inviting citrus aroma filling your kitchen.
Add in orzo pasta, stirring it into the soup. This will make it heartier, so gather your family around the table. As the orzo cooks, it will soak up flavors beautifully. After about 8 minutes, toss in a handful of fresh spinach. Let it wilt, and you’ll see the soup come to life with vibrant colors!
Don’t forget to season your soup to taste. A touch of salt and fresh cracked black pepper will elevate all the flavors. Once that’s done, ladle your soup into bowls and finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that extra zing. Your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is ready to be savored!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delightful soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Storage Tips
This soup is great for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavor will deepen, making it even tastier upon reheating.
Customizing Your Soup
Feel free to customize your soup! Add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also switch up the protein by using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes