Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a light, comforting, and nourishing soup that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh lemon flavor in a warm, soothing broth. This classic soup is known for its bright citrus taste balanced with savory chicken, making it both refreshing and deeply comforting at the same time.
Perfect for chilly days, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a cozy bowl of comfort, this soup is easy to make and gentle on the stomach. Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a timeless recipe that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
- Light yet filling
- Bright, fresh lemon flavor
- Comforting and nourishing
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for all seasons
- Family-friendly and soothing
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you enjoy classic comfort soups with a fresh twist, this recipe is a must-try. The lemon adds a refreshing brightness that lifts the entire dish, while the chicken and rice make it hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect when you want something cozy without feeling heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
- ¾ cup rice (white or jasmine)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1–2 lemons (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
Step 1 — Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2 — Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in chicken broth and add the chicken. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3 — Cook the Rice
Stir in the rice, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4 — Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, then return it to the soup.
Step 5 — Add Lemon
Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6 — Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 28g
Values may vary depending on ingredients used.
Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
- Add lemon juice at the end to keep flavor fresh
- Use homemade broth for best taste
- Don’t overcook the rice
- Adjust lemon to your preference
- Use chicken thighs for extra richness
Variations & Substitutions
- Use orzo instead of rice
- Add spinach or kale
- Make it creamy with a splash of cream
- Use brown rice (increase cook time)
- Make it gluten-free as written
What to Serve with Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
- Crusty bread
- Dinner rolls
- Side salad
- Crackers
- Roasted vegetables
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding lemon too early
- Overcooking the rice
- Using low-sodium broth without seasoning
- Skipping the lemon zest
- Boiling aggressively
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop
- Add extra broth when reheating
- Freeze without rice for best texture
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting classic that combines simple ingredients with bright, fresh flavor. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, it’s a perfect soup for cozy meals, light dinners, or whenever you need a warm bowl of comfort.
General Information
- Course: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup?
Yes, but freeze without rice for best results.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely—add it after the rice is cooked.
How do I make it more lemony?
Add extra lemon juice or zest to taste.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild and comforting.