Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup featuring tender chicken, creamy rice, and a zesty lemon flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 320kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 lb cooked, shredded chicken breast Tender and juicy pieces of protein.
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked arborio rice Creamy and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 8 cups chicken broth Deeply savory base that enriches the soup.
- 2 whole eggs For a silky texture.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Tangy and refreshing.
- Zest from 2 lemons Brightens the dish with citrusy fragrance.
Aromatics and Seasoning
- 1 medium onion, finely diced Sweet and savory undertones.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic allure.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Provides an earthy herbal note.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper For a subtle kick.
Additional Ingredients
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables.
- Chopped parsley For garnishing.
- Fresh or dried dill Herbaceous accent for garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 6–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked arborio rice, chicken broth, fresh thyme leaves, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir everything together, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: Whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl until smooth and frothy.
- Temper the Egg Mixture: Carefully ladle about 1 3⁄4 cups of hot soup into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Combine Mixtures: Blend the tempered egg mixture until smooth, then stir it back into the pot with the soup.
- Add Chicken and Season: Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken, and season the soup with sea salt and ground black pepper. Heat gently without boiling.
- Serve: Ladle your Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, dill, and Aleppo pepper if desired.
Notes
Consider using leftover chicken or customizing with your favorite herbs. Adding greens like spinach or kale can boost nutrition. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad.