COZY LEMON CHICKEN & RICE SOUP
Cozy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is warm, bright, and comforting. With tender chicken, hearty rice, and a refreshing hint of lemon, this easy homemade soup is perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasoning:
- Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Broth and Rice:
- Pour in chicken broth and add rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
Add Chicken and Lemon:
- Stir in cooked chicken, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.
Serve:
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Store soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Customizing the Flavor: Add spinach or kale for extra greens, or substitute rice with quinoa.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or warm breadsticks for a wholesome meal.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: Use gluten-free broth and rice for a gluten-free version.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.