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–+ servings
Healthy lemon chicken rice soup garnished with herbs and lemon slices.

Healthy Lemon Chicken Rice Soup

A nourishing and uplifting soup combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant lemon, perfect for a cozy meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked brown or white rice (or quinoa for a healthier twist)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 1 whole lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they're soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Introduce the minced garlic, stirring gently until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. After about 15 minutes, add the rice and allow it to heat through.
  7. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, taste and adjust seasonings. Serve in bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

You can swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegan option. Consider pairing the soup with a side salad or whole-grain bread. Experiment with a splash of coconut milk or add spinach for extra flavor.

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