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One-Pot Lemon Chicken Soup

This One-Pot Lemon Chicken Soup is a bright, comforting dish combining tender chicken, fresh lemon, and wholesome vegetables in a savory broth—perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup long grain rice or orzo
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks.
  5. Add rice or orzo to the simmering broth and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender.
  6. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  7. If using, add chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Notes

For extra richness, add a dollop of Greek yogurt to each bowl before serving or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.