Cozy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe

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There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of lemon chicken and rice soup, especially when it’s brimming with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, citrusy broth. This dish brings a balance of cozy and refreshing, ideal for chilly evenings, sick days, or when you’re simply craving something soothing yet flavorful. The zesty lemon brightens the velvety texture, and the herbs infuse it with depth and warmth.

This soup is more than just comfort food — it’s a wholesome, nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to the last spoonful. The marriage of zesty lemon and savory chicken offers a delightful contrast, while the rice gives it a hearty base. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a favorite.

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Ingredients for this Cozy Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme or dill, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

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Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and place it on a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

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Step 4: Add the Rice

Add the uncooked white rice to the pot and stir well. Simmer uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.

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Step 5: Add Lemon and Seasonings

Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the lemon flavor infuse the soup.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or dill. Add a slice of lemon on top for a bright, inviting presentation. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers if desired.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~310
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice works best in this soup?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it holds its shape well and cooks evenly. You can also use jasmine or basmati for added aroma. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to soften.

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Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just skip the chicken cooking step and add shredded rotisserie chicken when you add the rice.

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Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

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How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just double-check that all your packaged ingredients (like broth) are dairy-free as well.

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Can I add greens like spinach or kale?

Yes, leafy greens make a great addition. Stir in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

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How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy rice, cook it separately and add it right before serving. This helps maintain a firmer texture, especially for leftovers.

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Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all the ingredients except the rice and lemon juice to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add the rice during the last 30–45 minutes and stir in lemon juice at the end.

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How can I make it more lemony?

Add more fresh lemon juice or zest to taste at the end. You can also include preserved lemon slices for a deeper citrus flavor.

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