There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as bright and refreshing as this Easy Lemon Chicken Soup. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. The zesty lemon combined with tender chicken and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that feels both invigorating and soothing. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something delicious, this recipe will surely hit the spot!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Easy Lemon Chicken Soup stands out for its vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. The addition of freshly grated ginger and lemon zest not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful aroma. Using a combination of chicken stock and bone broth gives the soup a rich, hearty base while still keeping it light. Plus, the ditalini pasta adds a fun texture that makes each spoonful satisfying. This recipe is also highly adaptable; feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!

What You’ll Gather

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 sweet onion, diced
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup chopped celery
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
2 cups shredded chicken
1 lemon, thinly sliced
4 cups low-sodium Kitchen Basics Organic Free Range Chicken Stock
28-ounce container Kitchen Basics Turmeric and Ginger Chicken Bone Broth
2 cups water
3/4 cup ditalini pasta
1/3 cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, basil, or cilantro)
3 tablespoons chopped chives
Shaved parmesan for topping
Lemon wedges for serving

Gear Checklist

Large pot: Essential for making the soup.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Soup ladle: For serving your delicious creation.

From Start to Finish: Easy Lemon Chicken Soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3: Introduce the Chicken and Broth

Add in the shredded chicken, lemon zest, and the thinly sliced lemon. Pour in the chicken stock, turmeric and ginger bone broth, and water. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Toss in the Pasta

Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually around 7-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs

After the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh herbs and chives. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with shaved parmesan and a lemon wedge for an extra zing. Enjoy this delightful Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with a slice of crusty bread or on its own!

Healthier Substitutions

For a lighter version, use low-fat chicken broth instead of bone broth.
Substitute the ditalini pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Use skinless chicken breasts instead of shredded chicken for less fat.
Incorporate more vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This Easy Lemon Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative with your herbs; dill or thyme could add a lovely flavor twist. If you prefer a creamier soup, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. The soup can also be easily doubled for a crowd or meal prep. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time for the pasta accordingly!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the pasta from becoming too mushy, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving. The soup also freezes beautifully; simply let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Reader Q&A

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor to your Easy Lemon Chicken Soup.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

No worries! You can substitute with any small pasta shape, such as orzo or mini shells. If you want to keep it low-carb, consider skipping the pasta altogether and adding more vegetables.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Just store it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to cook the pasta separately if you’re making it in advance.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Definitely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Keep the lemon and herbs for that signature flavor!

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Chicken Soup is not just about nourishment; it’s about bringing warmth and comfort to your table. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs, combined with the heartiness of chicken and pasta, create a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to please everyone. So grab your ingredients, and let the simmering begin!

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