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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making Spring Chicken Soup with Lemon because it captures the essence of fresh, vibrant flavors that come with the season. The addition of lemon brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the chicken and hearty vegetables. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly day when you want something comforting but also light and refreshing. I find that the balance of ingredients is what truly elevates this soup, making it a staple during the spring months. Plus, it's easy to make in one pot!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:03:35.246Z

When I first made Spring Chicken Soup with Lemon, I was on a quest for a meal that felt both wholesome and invigorating. Using fresh herbs and bright lemon juice not only lifts the soup’s flavor but also gives it a lively appearance. I love how the herbs complement each ingredient, especially the tender chicken and vivid vegetables.

One tip I’ve found immensely helpful is to add the lemon juice at the end of cooking. This way, the citrus maintains its freshness and doesn’t lose its vibrant flavor. It makes every spoonful a taste of spring!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavors that awaken your senses
Comforting yet light, perfect for springtime
Packed with nourishing ingredients for a wholesome meal

The Role of Lemon

The addition of lemon in this Spring Chicken Soup is crucial not only for flavor but also for balance. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the chicken and broth. It's best to use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice to achieve the most vibrant taste. I recommend rolling the lemon on the counter before juicing; this helps release more juice and flavors.

Moreover, the lemon zest adds an aromatic dimension that complements the soup beautifully. Always zest the lemon before juicing; this way, you maximize the flavor contribution without wasting any part of the fruit. When zesting, be careful not to include the white pith beneath the outer layer, as it can impart a bitter flavor.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and are easy to dice. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute thighs for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may slightly increase as dark meat takes a bit longer to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

If you're looking to make the soup even heartier, consider adding chicken thighs or breaking down a whole chicken into pieces and using the bones for extra depth of flavor in the broth. In this case, simmer the chicken for about 40 minutes before removing and shredding the meat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. However, be sure to leave out the peas and lemon juice until you reheat the soup to maintain their freshness and texture. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching the bottom.

If you want to freeze the soup, I recommend portioning it into airtight containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for about three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat, adding fresh peas and lemon right before serving for the best result.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to prepare a delicious Spring Chicken Soup with Lemon:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a healthy and flavorful soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Spring Chicken Soup:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Pour in Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Peas and Lemon

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Your Spring Chicken Soup is ready to be served! Enjoy it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also substitute seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach for variety.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spring Chicken Soup, consider serving it with a crusty bread or a light salad on the side. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a fresh counterpoint to the soup's heartiness.

You can also top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a dash of grated Parmesan for added flavor complexity. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of yogurt or sour cream can introduce a creamy element that complements the lemon.

Variations to Explore

For a twist on the classic recipe, feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as spinach, kale, or even green beans during the simmering phase. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful pop of color to the soup.

If you are looking for a more robust flavor, consider adding a dash of white wine to the broth after sautéing the vegetables. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding the broth; this technique enhances the soup’s overall depth, making it even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Just add it to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What goes well with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.