Lemony Cream of Chicken Soup: A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of lemony cream of chicken soup on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup is a twist on the classic cream of chicken, adding a hint of lemon for a refreshing touch that brightens the entire dish. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a comforting choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Lemony Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe

Not only is this lemony cream of chicken soup easy to make, but it also combines the richness of creamy chicken soup with the refreshing zest of lemon. The balance of flavors makes it feel indulgent without being too heavy, and the touch of lemon gives it a surprising twist that adds brightness to every spoonful. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, as it reheats beautifully.

Recipe Overview: Lemony Cream of Chicken Soup

This soup is a blend of tender chicken, creamy broth, and fresh lemon juice, creating a silky and savory dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. It includes simple ingredients like onions, garlic, celery, and carrots, along with cream and lemon to elevate the flavors. You’ll find it easy to make and a treat to enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley and lemon zest

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You can also use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken to save time. For a thicker soup, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour with the onions, creating a roux before adding the broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemony Cream of Chicken Soup

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the butter. Once melted, add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the chicken back to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Cream and Lemon: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or your favorite crackers.

Tips and Tricks

If you want a smoother texture, blend half of the soup before adding the cream and lemon juice. This will give it a thicker consistency without needing additional flour. To adjust the lemony flavor, start with one tablespoon of lemon juice, tasting as you go to reach your preferred level of tanginess.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This lemony cream of chicken soup serves about 4 people. It pairs wonderfully with a side of warm, crusty bread or buttery crackers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light salad with a lemony vinaigrette to complement the flavors in the soup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 780mg

Storage and Reheating

This soup stores well and can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid curdling the cream. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out as it warms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, for a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely for a broth-based lemon chicken soup. The texture will be lighter, but the flavor remains delicious.

What if my soup curdles?

Curdling can happen if the cream is added to a soup that’s too hot. To prevent this, reduce the heat before adding the cream and stir gently. If curdling does occur, whisking the soup can help smooth it out.

Can I freeze this soup?

While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the cream may change once thawed. For best results, freeze the soup without cream and add the cream after reheating.

Conclusion

This lemony cream of chicken soup recipe offers a delightful twist on a comforting classic. With its rich, creamy base and refreshing hint of lemon, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Easy to make, wholesome, and perfect for any occasion, this soup is a wonderful way to warm up on a chilly evening or elevate a simple dinner. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear from you!