Spring Lemon Chicken Soup

Name: Spring Lemon Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup asparagus, chopped; 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen; 1 large carrot, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Spring Lemon Chicken Soup when the weather starts to warm up. There’s something about the combination of fresh lemon and tender chicken that brightens up my day. The addition of seasonal vegetables not only makes this dish vibrant but also adds a wonderful flavor profile. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal prep but yields comforting results, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy all spring long!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:11.357Z

When I first made this soup, I was looking for something light yet fulfilling. The bright, zesty lemon perfectly complements the tender chicken, making every spoonful a delight. I found that using fresh herbs like parsley really elevates the dish's flavor. You can adjust the lemon to your liking, whether you prefer a subtle hint or a more pronounced tang.

One thing I discovered is that adding seasonal vegetables like peas and asparagus not only adds color but also enhances the soup’s nutritional value. Cooking everything at a gentle simmer ensures that the chicken remains juicy, making this a perfect choice for those cozy evenings or as a refreshing lunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing, tangy flavor that awakens your palate
Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal
Easy to prepare and customize to your taste

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this Spring Lemon Chicken Soup is selecting high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken breasts provide tenderness and a juicy texture that can be lacking in other cuts. I recommend sourcing organic or free-range chicken if possible, as it enhances the overall flavor of the soup. Additionally, choose fresh seasonal vegetables for the best taste—these are often crisp and vibrant, ensuring that your soup has a delightful crunch.

Asparagus, green peas, and carrots not only add color to your dish but also contribute essential nutrients. For a personal twist, consider substituting asparagus with green beans, or adding spinach for extra greens. The lemon juice and zest are vital in brightening the flavors; using fresh lemon will impart a more noticeable zing compared to bottled varieties. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing, as this adds aromatic oils that enhance the soup's overall flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Technique

Sautéing the onions and garlic until translucent is crucial; this step builds a flavor foundation for your soup. You want them just soft enough to release their natural sweetness, usually around 5 minutes over medium heat. If they brown too much, they can introduce an unwanted bitter taste, so keep an eye on them! If you find your onions are browning quickly, simply lower the heat and continue to sauté until they reach that desirable translucent stage.

When cooking the chicken, ensure the broth reaches a rolling boil before lowering the heat. This rapid boil helps retain moisture in the chicken, while simmering ensures it becomes tender without drying out. After cooking for 15 minutes, check the chicken for doneness; it should be opaque and if you have a meat thermometer handy, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Properly cooked chicken will shred easily, making it easy to incorporate back into the soup.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the best spring chicken soup.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
1 large carrot, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before starting for an easier cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Spring Lemon Chicken Soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Add Vegetables and Lemon

Stir in the asparagus, carrots, and peas. Cook for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the soup, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your fresh and zesty soup!

Make sure to enjoy this soup hot for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Spinach or kale can be great additions that cook quickly and add additional nutrients!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Spring Lemon Chicken Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider storing the broth and the shredded chicken separately from the vegetables to maintain their texture. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much upon sitting.

For serving, consider pairing your soup with a light side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavors of the soup. You could also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil on top for an added layer of richness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this soup based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth as the base. You can also add a variety of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or kale, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the aromatics. This slight kick can contrast beautifully with the lemon's brightness. Additionally, if time permits, you can throw in a bay leaf during the simmer for a deeper flavor profile that complements the freshness of the ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe and can save you prep time!

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, as many brands are naturally gluten-free.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A side of crusty bread or a light salad pairs beautifully with this soup for a complete meal.