Name: Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Long grain white rice or jasmine rice Carrots, diced Celery, diced Onion, chopped Garlic, minced Chicken broth Fresh lemon juice and zest Olive oil Fresh parsley or dill, chopped Salt and pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup balances savory chicken and tender rice with the vibrant zest and tang of fresh lemon juice, creating a deliciously fresh and comforting meal. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for any time you need a nourishing boost.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Long grain white rice or jasmine rice
Carrots, diced
Celery, diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Fresh lemon juice and zest
Olive oil
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Salt and pepper

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Add chicken breasts and reduce heat to simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Remove chicken and shred it.
Add rice to the pot and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley or dill before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

Use brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and added fiber.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a twist.
Incorporate a beaten egg for a Greek avgolemono-style soup.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking rice during reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Yes, add cooked chicken towards the end of cooking just to heat through.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine ingredients except rice, add rice in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How do I prevent rice from becoming mushy?

Add rice later in the cooking process and monitor closely for doneness.

Can I freeze lemon chicken and rice soup?

Yes, but rice may become softer after freezing; adjust texture when reheating.

What herbs work best with this soup?

Parsley, dill, or thyme complement the lemon flavor well.

Can I add other vegetables?

Carrots, zucchini, or peas are great additions.

How tangy is the soup?

The lemon adds a fresh, bright tang balanced by the savory broth.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free.

What sides pair well with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup is a refreshing, comforting, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. Its bright citrus flavor paired with tender chicken and rice creates a nourishing bowl that’s both satisfying and light—a true crowd-pleaser.