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Lemon Thyme Chicken Soup

This chicken soup features tender shredded chicken simmered with aromatic vegetables, fresh thyme, and bright lemon, creating a comforting yet lively broth. The soup has a clear, flavorful appearance with vibrant hints from the lemon and herbs, finished with a warm, inviting texture. It’s a simple, adaptable dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or soothing weekends.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homemade
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts or thighs preferably skinless and boneless
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 2 large carrots chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice and zest
  • to taste salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. The vegetables should emit a gentle aroma and start to turn slightly translucent.
  2. Add minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for another minute, stirring constantly until it releases a fragrant aroma, filling the air with a warm garlic scent.
  3. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot, then pour in enough cold water to cover all the ingredients. Bring the water to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles rising slowly to the surface.
  4. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface to keep the broth clear. Add a sprig of fresh thyme, a bay leaf, and a pinch of salt, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Remove the chicken from the broth and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat or bones.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the broth. Stir well and taste the broth, adjusting the salt as needed. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into the soup, and add a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness.
  7. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. The broth should be clear and flavorful, with tender vegetables and juicy chicken pieces.
  8. Taste again and adjust seasoning if needed, perhaps adding more lemon or salt. Remove the sprig of thyme and bay leaf before serving.
  9. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the warm, bright aroma and comforting texture.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon just before serving. Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to customize the soup to your taste.