Description
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish bursting with bright, zesty lemon flavor and fresh herbs. Featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a silky broth enhanced by a natural gelling agent, this soup is perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal that warms the soul. Its simple preparation and versatile nature make it ideal for lunches, dinners, or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Broth
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 6 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 2 to 3 fresh lemons (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (natural), or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (natural), or to taste
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley and oregano. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks or thin strips to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned on all sides but remain tender inside, building a rich flavor base.
- Pour in the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth along with the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, blending the flavors.
- Add Lemon and Herbs: Finely zest and juice the fresh lemons, then stir them into the pot. Add the chopped fresh herbs and the natural gelling agent, mixing well to achieve a silky and comforting broth texture.
- Simmer and Adjust: Let the soup simmer gently for another 15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more lemon juice for brightness or extra herbs for freshness. Keep the pot uncovered for a thicker broth or partially covered for a lighter consistency.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the brightest, most complex flavor.
- Do not overcook chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant aroma and color.
- Use the natural gelling agent sparingly for a smooth broth without heaviness.
- Let the soup rest for 10 minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, lemon chicken soup, healthy soup, fresh herbs, comforting meal, gluten free, easy soup
