Spring Lemon Chicken Soup

Name: Spring Lemon Chicken Soup
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 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup fresh spinach; Juice of 2 lemons; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Spring Lemon Chicken Soup when the weather starts to warm up—it feels like the ultimate comfort food while still being light and refreshing. The zesty lemon and bright vegetables bring a burst of flavor that perfectly complements tender chicken. It's quick to prepare and makes for a delightful meal any day of the week. Plus, the vibrant colors and aroma fill my kitchen with an inviting springtime vibe. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner!

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:12.325Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create something so flavorful. The combination of fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs not only brightens the soup but also lifts the spirits. Using rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing taste, making it even easier to whip up after a long day.

I also learned that adding the lemon juice at the end preserves its bright flavor, rather than cooking it longer, which can dull its freshness. It’s the little details like this that make this dish special!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
A comforting yet light soup perfect for any season
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The combination of fresh vegetables and lemon creates a unique balance in Spring Lemon Chicken Soup. The carrots add natural sweetness, while celery contributes a distinct crunch, enhancing the overall texture. Whether you choose organic or conventional produce, the freshness of your ingredients dictates the soup’s vibrant flavor. If carrots aren’t available, feel free to substitute with parsnips or additional celery for a similar texture without sacrificing taste.

Lemon juice is essential in this recipe, imparting a refreshing zest that invigorates the chicken and vegetables. To achieve the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon helps cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a bright and cohesive dish. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, start with just one lemon’s juice and adjust to your taste after cooking.

Cooking Techniques for the Perfect Soup

When sautéing the vegetables, be mindful of the heat level. A medium heat is perfect for gently cooking the onion until translucent without browning it. This ensures a sweet, mellow flavor rather than a caramelized one, which can overpower the soup’s freshness. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking—this should take about 3-4 minutes for the onion and an additional minute after adding garlic.

During the simmering phase, you want to maintain a gentle boil. This allows the vegetables to tenderize while ensuring the broth retains its flavor integrity. If the pot begins to boil too vigorously, simply reduce the heat. A perfect simmer will produce small bubbles on the surface without aggressive boiling, typically taking about 10 minutes for the carrots and celery to soften before adding the chicken.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to make your Spring Lemon Chicken Soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup fresh spinach
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor in your soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Spring Lemon Chicken Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute before adding the carrots and celery.

Add Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to tenderize.

Combine Chicken and Spinach

Stir in the shredded chicken and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted, about 3 minutes.

Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove from heat and add the fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serve hot with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering and removing it before serving. This adds depth and complexity to the soup.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you plan to make Spring Lemon Chicken Soup ahead of time, it's best to store the broth and vegetables separately from any added ingredients like chicken and spinach. This prevents the spinach from becoming soggy and the chicken from overcooking. The soup can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the broth and then adding fresh ingredients when ready to serve, which will keep the flavors bright upon reheating.

To reheat leftover soup, do so gently on the stove over low-medium heat. Rapid heating can cause the chicken to dry out or the spinach to become unpalatable. If you find the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore its original consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a heartier meal, consider adding more vegetables such as zucchini or peas, or even a handful of cooked rice or quinoa. These additions not only provide texture but also enhance the nutritional profile of the soup. You can also make it a bit spicy by incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce as it simmers.

Serving Spring Lemon Chicken Soup with warm, crusty bread or a light salad can elevate the dining experience. The bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up the bright broth, while a simple side salad can balance the meal with its freshness, featuring a light vinaigrette that complements the lemony notes of the soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure to cook it thoroughly and shred it before adding to the soup.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

You can use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different taste and texture.

→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.