Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon

Name: Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts, cut into chunks; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making my Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon as the days start to warm up. The refreshing tang of lemon really brightens the dish, instantly uplifting my spirits after a long winter. Every spoonful is packed with tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a hint of herbs that create a light yet satisfying meal. It’s the perfect way to transition into springtime while warming up my kitchen with delightful scents. This soup is not only comforting but also a nourishing treat that I've come to rely on as a family favorite.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T15:03:34.496Z

As a cozy dish that always brings smiles, I’ve spent many afternoons experimenting with different ingredients until I perfected my Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon. I found that adding some fresh parsley and thyme at the end enhances the flavors beautifully, maintaining a fresh taste. Using a combination of chicken thighs and breasts provides a depth of flavor and tenderness that makes the soup truly satisfying.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve some lemon zest to sprinkle on top right before serving; it adds a bright finish that takes the soup to another level! And let me tell you, serving it with warm bread is a must!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavor from fresh lemon juice
Hearty chicken perfectly tender after the simmering process
Easy to customize with whatever spring vegetables you have on hand

Crafting the Perfect Broth

The foundation of any great soup is the broth, and for this Spring Chicken Soup, a quality chicken broth will elevate the dish significantly. I recommend using low-sodium broth to control the saltiness, especially since we will be seasoning at the end. If you have homemade broth on hand, that adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Just remember to heat it to a gentle simmer before adding the other ingredients to maintain the soup's even temperature.

Make sure to check the broth for any excess fat or impurities before incorporating it into the soup. A clean broth leads to a clearer and lighter soup. Additionally, if you're looking for a more robust taste, consider adding a splash of white wine when combining the broth and chicken – it provides a beautiful complexity that pairs well with the lemon.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, making it perfect for using up seasonal vegetables. Green beans are fantastic for adding crunch, but you can easily swap them out with asparagus, peas, or even spinach depending on what's fresh. Just be mindful of cooking times; delicate greens like spinach will only need a quick blanch at the end, while sturdier vegetables may require more simmering alongside the chicken.

One of my favorite tips is to add radishes or zucchini for a unique twist. Slice them thinly and stir them in halfway through cooking to ensure they retain some texture. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also introduces layers of flavor that make each spoonful delightful.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so over low heat to avoid boiling, which can break down the chicken and make it tough. I usually add a splash of extra broth or water to reclaim the initial soup's lightness and freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. It's best to freeze it without the garnishes and any delicate vegetables added afterward. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. This soup also makes a wonderful base for a quick meal during busy weekdays; simply serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make this delightful soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts, cut into chunks
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your scrumptious Spring Chicken Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken

Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 7-8 minutes.

Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth, green beans, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Stir in lemon zest and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your warm, comforting soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can also include some diced potatoes or peas based on your preference. Be sure not to overcook the green beans, as they should still have a bit of crunch.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To enhance the depth of flavor in your Spring Chicken Soup, consider incorporating fresh herbs beyond thyme. Adding fresh dill or tarragon right before serving can bring a vibrant aromatic quality that complements the chicken and lemon beautifully. Just be cautious with the amount—both herbs are quite fragrant and can overpower if used excessively.

Pepper adds a mild heat that balances the soup's tanginess. Try to use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor. If you're interested in an additional layer of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce warmth without overwhelming the taste of the lemon and herbs.

Variations for Dietary Preferences

For a lighter version of this recipe, feel free to substitute the chicken with a mix of chickpeas or lentils. These alternatives not only provide protein but also introduce different textures that complement the traditional flavors of the soup. Adjust the cooking time to ensure that the legumes are fully tender before serving.

If you're aiming for a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice can be added in the last few minutes of cooking, offering a lovely textured element while keeping the dish light. This swap also thickens the soup slightly, providing a heartier feel without the heaviness of noodles or grains.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is perfect served with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a tangy balance to the bright flavors. A sprinkle of freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving can really elevate the dish, ensuring the citrus notes shine through beautifully.

Pairing the soup with crusty baguette or homemade garlic bread not only provides a satisfying crunch but also makes it a more fulfilling meal. You can create a simple side salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette to round out your meal, keeping everything bright and refreshing as you enjoy the flavors of spring.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, you can substitute with turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add seasonal veggies like asparagus or zucchini to make it even more vibrant and nutritious.