When the weather turns chilly or you need something comforting, lemon chicken soup is the perfect choice. It’s more than just a warm meal – with tender chicken, fresh lemon, and a mix of herbs, it’s a wholesome, refreshing bowl of comfort.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot and cook for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh thyme to the soup. Stir well and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon if desired.
Ladle soup into bowls and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
This soup is customizable, so feel free to add rice, noodles, or leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra flavor and nutrients!