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Lemon Herb Chicken Noodle Soup

This chicken noodle soup features tender cooked chicken, silky noodles, and bright notes of lemon zest. It is prepared by simmering broth with aromatics, adding cooked chicken and noodles, and finishing with fresh herbs and lemon for a vibrant flavor. The final dish is a clear, comforting soup with a lively hue and an inviting aroma.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups egg noodles or any small pasta
  • 1 lemon zest from one lemon, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery sliced
  • 1 carrot carrot diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as parsley and thyme, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pot and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion, sliced celery, and diced carrot. Sauté over medium heat until vegetables are fragrant and slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Meanwhile, shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Add the shredded chicken to the simmering broth. Let it cook together for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles separately in boiling salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  6. Add the cooked noodles to the broth mixture. Stir in lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs for brightness. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
  7. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Remove the pot from heat once the flavors are balanced.
  8. Ladle the steaming, vibrant soup into bowls, garnishing with extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

For extra depth, add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon just before serving.