Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon

Name: Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Collection

I love making Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon because it perfectly captures the essence of fresh, vibrant flavors that represent the season. The tender chicken, zesty lemon, and an array of spring vegetables create a delightful harmony in every spoonful. This recipe is not only comforting but also refreshing, truly embodying the spirit of spring. I often enjoy this dish on those crisp evenings when I want something light yet satisfying to warm my heart and palate.

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:37:34.962Z

When I first made Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon, I realized how a simple ingredient like lemon can elevate a dish to a new level. The brightness of the lemon intertwines beautifully with the chicken and vegetables, making it not just a meal but an experience. I always recommend using fresh herbs for the best flavor.

As I perfected my technique, I learned that cooking the chicken slowly in the broth helps it stay tender while infusing the flavors of the soup. Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up and gives it that extra zing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that refreshes the palate
Tender chicken simmered to perfection in a rich broth
Loaded with seasonal vegetables for vibrant color and nutrition

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, seasonal ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavors of this Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon. The sweetness of freshly picked peas and the crispness of green beans bring the dish to life, providing not only a burst of color but also essential nutrients. I recommend visiting a local farmers' market for the best selection of spring vegetables. Their freshness can significantly enhance the overall taste, making each bite a delightful experience.

If you're short on time or fresh ingredients, consider frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative. Frozen peas and green beans can still retain their flavor and nutritional value, especially if sourced from reputable brands that freeze vegetables at peak ripeness. This option can save you prep time without compromising the quality of your soup.

Perfecting the Broth and Seasoning

The broth in this soup is where the flavor truly develops. Using high-quality chicken broth can elevate your dish significantly; you can even make your own by simmering leftover bones from a roast chicken with aromatics for a few hours. Adding a bay leaf enhances the flavor depth, imparting subtle herbaceous notes that complement the dish beautifully. Be sure to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to achieve a balanced flavor profile.

Don't hesitate to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or dill for a flavor twist. Adding these during the last few minutes of cooking can introduce a fresh, fragrant element without overwhelming the primary flavors. Just remember to use them sparingly—you can always add more, but it’s hard to take away once added.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful soup:

For the soup

1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
Juice of 2 lemons
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

This combination of ingredients will create a deliciously bright soup that's perfect for spring!

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Start by dicing the onions, slicing the carrots, and dicing the celery so everything is ready to go.

Sauté the vegetables

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat, then add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Cook the chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot along with the chicken broth, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add the remaining ingredients

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then mix in the green beans, peas, and lemon juice. Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your warm and zesty Spring Chicken Soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. Additionally, serving your soup with crusty bread is a fantastic pairing!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious the next day. When reheating, do so gently on a stove over medium heat to avoid overcooking the vegetables.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the soup. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. This can be frozen for up to three months; when you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat for a comforting meal.

Variations to Explore

While this recipe highlights classic spring vegetables, you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Try adding asparagus or zucchini for variety, or substitute the chicken breast with boneless thighs for a richer flavor. If you prefer a creamy texture, you might blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot to create a velvety base without losing the chunky goodness.

For a heartier version, consider adding small pasta shapes, like orzo or ditalini, towards the end of cooking. Just ensure to cook them separately and stir them in right before serving, preventing overcooking that can turn them mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure to cook it longer until fully thawed and cooked through.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or water with bouillon cubes if needed.

→ Can this soup be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors continue to develop, making it even better the next day. Just reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Is it okay to add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.