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Hearty Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth, simmered to create a warm, nourishing dish. Brightened with lemon juice and finished with fresh herbs, it boasts a clear, inviting appearance and a balanced, satisfying texture. Perfect for a quick, adaptable meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homestyle
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or good quality store-bought
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded, leftover roast chicken works well
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt & pepper adjust to preference
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and gather your equipment to keep the process smooth.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to gently sizzle.
  3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onion should turn slightly golden and the garlic will smell aromatic.
  4. Stir in diced carrots and celery, cooking until they soften slightly, about 5 minutes. They should become tender but still hold their shape, and the mixture will smell sweet and savory.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, increasing the heat to bring it to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to cook through.
  6. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper, then squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the chicken thoroughly and develop the flavors.
  7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. The broth should be flavorful and balanced.
  8. Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of thyme for added freshness and aroma. The soup will look clear, vibrant, and inviting with tender vegetables and shredded chicken floating gently within.

Notes

For an extra hearty touch, add cooked rice or noodles. Use leftover roast chicken for quick prep. Adjust lemon juice and herbs to taste for perfect brightness.