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, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

When the weather starts to warm up, I crave a light yet nourishing soup that embodies the freshness of spring. This Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon is my go-to recipe for those breezy afternoons. With the vibrancy of lemon combined with tender chicken and seasonal vegetables, it's a dish that brightens my day. Each spoonful is a celebration of flavors, and I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a leisurely lunch.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:51:34.660Z

Each time I make this soup, I'm reminded of my grandma's kitchen during spring. The aroma of chicken broth simmering with fresh herbs and citrus fills the air, instantly putting me in a good mood. I love using fresh lemon juice and zest for that burst of flavor, and I often add in whatever seasonal vegetables I have on hand.

This soup not only tastes incredible, but it also comes together in under an hour. I find that letting the flavors meld for a few minutes after cooking enhances the soup’s depth. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to welcome the change of seasons!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright lemon flavor that lifts the entire dish
Hearty yet light, perfect for springtime
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The vibrant lemon in this Spring Chicken Soup serves not only to enhance flavor but also to brighten its presentation. Choosing a fresh, zesty lemon will elevate your soup significantly. Remember to zest before juicing it to capture the essential oils from the peel, which provide an aromatic boost. The zest adds a beautiful layer of brightness, truly embodying the spirit of spring.

The vegetables you select play a crucial role in the soup's texture and nutrition. Asparagus adds a delightful crunch and is at its peak during spring. If you prefer a different vegetable, consider using green beans or peas, which can be added in the same cooking stage. Just ensure any substitutions are tender and cook down in time to meld all flavors beautifully.

Best Practices for Cooking

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium heat to ensure they become soft and translucent without browning. This gentle cooking technique will help develop a sweeter flavor profile in the soup. You can test doneness by checking if the onions are glossy and have lost their sharp edge, around 5-7 minutes.

Don’t rush the simmering stage after adding the broth; this step is essential for blending the flavors. Allow the soup to boil for a couple of minutes and then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. A rolling boil could toughen the chicken or cause the vegetables to lose their vibrant color. Keep an eye on it, and adjust as needed!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spring Chicken Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Incorporate Chicken and Vegetables

Stir in shredded chicken and asparagus pieces. Season with lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let the soup cook for another 10 minutes until the asparagus is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your refreshing bowl of Spring Chicken Soup!

This soup is best served hot, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers. Remember to remove it before serving!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Spring Chicken Soup is excellent for meal prep as it stores well. You can make a large batch and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When storing, let the soup cool completely in the pot before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, which could dilute the flavors over time.

If you plan to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the asparagus until reheating to avoid a mushy texture. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding fresh asparagus just before serving for that perfect crunch.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe highlights asparagus, feel free to experiment with other seasonal vegetables. For a heartier soup, you could include potatoes or sweet potatoes. Just cut them small enough to ensure they cook through in the same timeframe as the asparagus, roughly 10 minutes or until fork-tender.

Herbs can also be a delightful addition. Adding fresh herbs such as dill or thyme just before serving can enhance the soup's aroma and create a more complex flavor profile. If you prefer a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added during the sautéing stage can bring a new vibrancy that complements the lemon beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to the soup.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to use any spring vegetables you enjoy, such as peas or green beans.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.