Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

If you’re craving something that’s comforting yet refreshing, this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is exactly what you need. Picture this: a flavorful broth infused with zesty lemon, tender chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together to create a cozy, soul-soothing bowl of goodness. The vibrant lemon adds a burst of freshness, while the tender chicken and vegetables provide the perfect balance of heartiness. It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel like you’ve just been wrapped in a warm, comforting hug. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This soup isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about the experience. Let me tell you why you’ll fall in love with it:

Light Yet Satisfying

The broth is light, but still rich in flavor, making this soup feel fresh and not too heavy. It’s the perfect balance of light and hearty, keeping you satisfied without the heaviness.

Packed with Flavor

Lemon, garlic, oregano, and a hint of dill create a mouthwatering medley of Mediterranean flavors. It’s the kind of soup that makes you want to keep coming back for just one more spoonful.

Healthy and Nutritious

The ingredients are not only packed with flavor, but also nutrients. The chicken provides protein, the vegetables add vitamins, and the lemon gives an extra boost of Vitamin C. This is comfort food that’s good for you!

Quick and Easy

You don’t need to be a master chef to whip this up. The steps are simple, and in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Making this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is easy with just a few key ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice because they’re lean and easy to cook, providing tender, juicy chicken that shreds perfectly in the soup.

Olive Oil

A touch of olive oil helps sauté the onions, garlic, and vegetables, adding richness and a subtle fruity flavor that’s key to Mediterranean cooking.

Onion & Garlic

They’re the base of the soup’s flavor, adding depth and a savory aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks.

Carrots & Celery

These vegetables add texture, color, and sweetness to balance the bright acidity of the lemon. They’re also great for adding extra nutrients to the soup.

Chicken Broth

The chicken broth creates a savory, hearty base for the soup. Use a low-sodium version if you want to control the salt content.

Fresh Lemon

Lemon is the star here—its tangy, citrusy flavor brightens up the entire soup and gives it that signature Mediterranean vibe. You’ll use both the zest and juice.

Fresh Herbs (Dill & Oregano)

These Mediterranean herbs provide the perfect aroma and flavor. Dill adds a fresh, slightly tangy note, while oregano gives a warm, earthy kick.

Orzo Pasta

Orzo adds substance to the soup while still keeping things light. This tiny, rice-shaped pasta is the perfect complement to the broth and chicken.

Salt & Pepper

Seasoning is essential! Salt and pepper bring out the flavors, making the soup come together into a harmonious dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this comforting Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup? Follow these easy steps to get it from your kitchen to your table in no time:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Stir in the orzo and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so the orzo doesn’t overcook and become mushy.

Step 5: Add the Lemon and Chicken

Once the orzo is ready, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Stir in fresh dill for a burst of freshness, and give the soup one last stir before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh dill or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy the bright, comforting flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few sides:

Warm, Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the broth. It’ll soak up all the delicious flavors and add that extra comfort to the meal.

Greek Salad

For a full Mediterranean experience, serve this soup with a simple Greek salad, complete with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a light vinaigrette.

Rice Pilaf

If you prefer something more filling, serve the soup alongside a light rice pilaf for a hearty combination.

Extra Lemon & Fresh Herbs

Squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the soup just before serving for an added pop of freshness, and top with fresh herbs for color and flavor.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead

You can make this soup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors will develop even further, and you’ll have an easy meal ready for later!

Use Rotisserie Chicken

To save time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it yourself. It’s a great shortcut without sacrificing flavor.

Customize the Vegetables

Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrients. Just toss them in along with the carrots and celery!

Swap the Orzo

If you prefer another type of pasta, orzo can be swapped out for small shells, ditalini, or even rice for a gluten-free version.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Frozen chicken works perfectly. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding it.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just be sure to leave out the orzo if you’re freezing it, as it may become mushy when reheated.

Q3: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A3: Yes, feel free to swap out the orzo for any small pasta shape like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even rice if you prefer.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q5: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A5: Yes, this soup is naturally dairy-free! Just skip any cheese toppings and enjoy the flavors as they are.

Q6: Can I add more vegetables?
A6: Definitely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even potatoes for added flavor and texture.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: If you use a gluten-free pasta like rice noodles or gluten-free orzo, this soup can easily be made gluten-free.

Q8: Can I use homemade chicken broth?
A8: Yes, homemade chicken broth will add even more depth of flavor to the soup, making it even richer!

Q9: What can I serve with this soup for a complete meal?
A9: A side of Greek salad, warm pita bread, or a simple rice pilaf would be perfect complements to this soup!

Q10: How can I adjust the lemon flavor?
A10: You can increase or decrease the lemon juice and zest based on how tangy you want the soup to be. Start with a little and taste as you go to find the perfect balance.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is everything you want in a bowl: fresh, hearty, flavorful, and packed with Mediterranean goodness. With the perfect balance of tender chicken, bright lemon, and comforting vegetables, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, it’s a recipe that’s both nourishing and delicious.

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