This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a bright and refreshing dish! It features tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs that bring a lovely flavor to every spoonful.
You can enjoy this soup any day of the week, especially when you need a warm hug in a bowl. I like to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This gives the soup a nice, rich flavor. You can use avocado oil or canola oil if you need a substitute. Extra virgin olive oil is best for its robust taste.
Onion and Garlic: These create a solid flavor base. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can replace onions. Garlic powder can also substitute fresh garlic, using one teaspoon for each clove.
Chicken Broth: A key flavor component! Low-sodium broth is a great choice if you want to control salt. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Chicken: I prefer using rotisserie chicken for a quick option. You could also use canned chicken or leave it out for a vegetarian soup, adding more veggies instead.
Spinach or Kale: Both are nutrient-rich additions. If you don’t have either, collard greens or Swiss chard can be good substitutes. Use what you like best!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables are Perfectly Cooked?
Sautéing your vegetables correctly is key for the soup’s flavor and texture. It’s about softening them just enough without overcooking. Follow these steps:
- Heat olive oil in the pot before adding veggies.
- Cook onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add carrots and celery, stirring for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Keep the heat at medium; this prevents burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Keep an eye on them, and feel free to adjust cooking times based on your stove and preferences!
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 bunch fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, for garnish
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Your Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step creates a lovely flavor base for your soup!
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Once the veggies are soft, stir in the diced tomatoes along with the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This simmering time is important as it allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
4. Add Chicken and Greens:
After the soup has simmered, add the shredded chicken and your chopped spinach or kale to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and bright. This gives the soup that fresh, vibrant touch!
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the fresh parsley and squeeze in the juice of 2 lemons. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. This is where it all comes together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the soup hot, garnished with a slice of lemon on top for that extra burst of citrus freshness. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and add it directly to the soup. It saves time and adds great flavor!
How Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by replacing the chicken with extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add beans for more protein!
What Can I Substitute for Lemon Juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice on hand, lime juice is a great substitute. You could also use a splash of white wine vinegar for some acidity, but be cautious as it has a stronger flavor.
