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 thighs, bone-in; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups baby spinach; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon, especially as the weather starts to warm up. The vibrant taste of lemon paired with tender chicken and fresh vegetables brings a bright note to my kitchen. This recipe is easy to assemble and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. I enjoy using seasonal ingredients, allowing me to savor the freshness of spring in every bowl. It's a refreshing twist that not only fills you up but also invigorates your palate after a long winter.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:05:34.506Z

When I decided to make this Spring Chicken Soup With Lemon, I wanted to highlight the flavors of the season, using fresh vegetables and herbs. I found that the key was to add the lemon zest at the end of cooking, which really brightens the soup without overpowering it. Each time we make this, it's a delightful reminder that spring is just around the corner.

One tip I discovered is to use bone-in chicken thighs for added richness, which balances beautifully with the acidity of the lemon. Pairing it with a crusty bread makes for a satisfying meal that feels both light and hearty at the same time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor that lifts your spirits
Tender chicken and fresh vegetables in every bite
A comforting dish that's perfect for any spring gathering

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, in-season vegetables is crucial for achieving a vibrant flavor in this soup. The carrots and celery not only add sweetness and crunch, but they also provide the foundation for a fragrant broth. I recommend choosing organic or locally sourced options whenever possible, as their fresh taste can elevate this dish. Aim for vibrant colors and firm textures when selecting your produce; this contributes to both flavor and aesthetic appeal.

The zesty lemon in this soup isn't just for flavor; it helps to brighten the overall dish, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and vegetables. The lemon zest adds an aromatic quality that complements the chicken beautifully. When using lemon, it's essential to avoid the bitter pith, so be careful when zesting. If you don't have fresh lemon on hand, a splash of lemon juice from a bottle can suffice, but fresh is always best.

Perfecting Your Technique

When sautéing the vegetables, ensure you maintain a medium heat to avoid browning them too quickly. You want them softened, not caramelized. Stirring occasionally helps them cook evenly. If your garlic starts to brown, it can impart a bitter flavor, so be sure to add it later in the sauté process to keep its taste bright and fresh.

Shredding the chicken after cooking is a pivotal step that allows it to absorb more of the broth's flavors. You can use two forks for this task, pulling the chicken apart gently. If you find the chicken is difficult to shred, it might need additional cooking; this can happen if it's particularly large or if the temperature was too low during cooking. Always ensure your chicken reads 165°F to guarantee it's properly cooked.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to bring your soup to life:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups baby spinach
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a warming bowl of soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Chicken

Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the chicken thighs, browning them on both sides for about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth, zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Finish with Lemon and Spinach

Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy this vibrant dish warm with your favorite crusty bread!

Make sure to adjust the seasoning before serving if needed for a personalized touch!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Spring Chicken Soup can be made ahead and stored easily, making it a perfect option for meal prep. If you plan to enjoy leftovers, consider cooking the chicken and broth separately from the vegetables. This prevents the vegetables from becoming overly soft when reheating. Store the chicken and broth in one container and the vegetables in another for optimal texture. When ready to eat, simply combine everything in a pot and heat until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the spinach, as it doesn't freeze well. After cooking, let the soup cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra chicken broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which absorbs the flavorful broth beautifully. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the soup's brightness and balance the meal. If you're looking to elevate the dining experience, consider serving it alongside a charcuterie board featuring soft cheeses, olives, and seasonal fruits to honor the spring theme.

For a twist on presentation, serve the soup in individual bread bowls. Hollow out small, crusty loaves and fill them with the warm soup, topping with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only adds a fun and interactive element to your meal, but it also saves on dishes, making cleanup a breeze!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier during cooking.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just leave out the spinach until you reheat it.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad makes a great accompaniment.