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 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon, juice and zest; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon as the weather warms up. This recipe is vibrant and refreshing, capturing the essence of spring with its zesty lemon and tender chicken. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of flavors that reminds me of sunny days. I find that adding fresh herbs not only elevates the taste but also brightens the presentation. It's perfect for a light lunch or as a comforting dinner, and it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:57:34.345Z

When I first made Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon, I was amazed at how the flavors of lemon and herbs came together so beautifully. I experimented with different vegetables and found that adding asparagus and snap peas not only enhanced the taste but also gave the soup a lovely crunch. Using homemade chicken broth made a world of difference in the depth of flavor.

This soup has become a staple in my household, especially during spring. I love to serve it with fresh bread for dipping, making it a complete meal. The bright colors and fantastic aroma really uplift my mood after a long day.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that awakens the senses
Tender chicken and crunchy vegetables for the perfect texture
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

In this Spring Chicken Soup, the addition of fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant color to the dish but also elevates the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs, unlike dried ones, provide a bright and aromatic note that beautifully complements the lemon. You can also consider using dill or basil for a different take—both pair exceptionally well with lemon and chicken.

To maximize the flavor of your herbs, add them toward the end of cooking. This technique preserves their essential oils and essential freshness. I like to sprinkle the parsley just before serving, ensuring its color remains bright and the aroma is at its peak.

Perfecting Texture and Cooking Time

Achieving the right texture in your Spring Chicken Soup is crucial. The chicken should be tender and cooked through, while the vegetables should retain a slight crunch. To do this, monitor the chicken closely; when it turns from pink to white, it's time to add the broth and lemon. Cooking your asparagus and snap peas for no longer than 10 minutes ensures they stay vibrant and flavorful—overcooking leads to a mushy texture.

If you find yourself with overcooked vegetables, a quick solution is to remove the soup from heat and transfer the vegetable pieces to an ice bath. This halts their cooking process and helps retain their crispness until you're ready to serve.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers, which can preserve the flavors for up to three months. Remember that the snap peas and asparagus might lose some texture upon thawing, but the soup will still be delicious.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can lead to overcooked vegetables. If the soup seems too thick after cooling, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients for a delicious Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, juice and zest
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup snap peas, trimmed
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

With these fresh ingredients, you are ready to create a delicious bowl of Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your soup from scratch.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the lemon juice and zest, and sprinkle in the dried thyme.

Add the Veggies

Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Add the asparagus and snap peas, cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your refreshing Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon warm.

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. For example, zucchini or green beans can be used in place of asparagus and snap peas if you prefer. Each vegetable brings its unique texture and flavor, allowing you to make the recipe your own while still keeping with the refreshing theme.

For a heartier version, adding small pieces of potatoes or pasta will give the soup more substance. If you choose to add pasta, consider cooking it separately to avoid it becoming overly soft in the soup.

Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, as some brands may include gluten as a thickening agent. You can also substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian version that still delivers protein and texture.

For a dairy-free option, this recipe naturally fits, but if you're tempted to add cream for richness, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be mindful that it will add a distinct flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken works great! Just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance. Just reheat and add a little extra broth if needed.

→ What if I don't have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

→ Is this soup low in calories?

Yes, with around 320 calories per serving, it's a light yet satisfying meal.