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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

As the days grow warmer and the flowers begin to bloom, I love to make this Spring Lemon Chicken Soup. It’s the perfect dish to celebrate the season, combining fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients. The zesty lemon and tender chicken paired with seasonal veggies create a light yet satisfying meal. Whenever I serve it on the patio with friends, I know we’re ushering in springtime in the best possible way. You’ll find that this soup not only pleases the palate but also brightens any gathering!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:16.656Z

I’ve always believed that the right soup can brighten a dull day, and this Spring Lemon Chicken Soup does just that. The first time I made it, I was astonished by how a simple ingredient like lemon transformed the entire flavor profile. Each spoonful bursts with freshness, highlighting the importance of using seasonal vegetables, which not only enhance taste but also boost nutrition.

One of my favorite tips when making this soup is to sauté the chicken until golden before adding broth. It gives the soup depth and richness. I also love adjusting the lemon to taste, adding a little zest along with the juice to really amplify that springy brightness. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy flavors that celebrate spring
Hearty yet light, perfect for any time of day
Easy to make with fresh, seasonal ingredients

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

In this Spring Lemon Chicken Soup, the choice of fresh ingredients is vital in achieving a vibrant flavor profile. Fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color, but its mild flavor complements the zesty lemon perfectly. Opting for seasonal vegetables like young carrots and crisp celery enhances the soup's freshness, making it feel truly spring-like. I recommend shopping at your local farmer's market to find the best quality produce, which really elevates this dish.

Lemon juice and zest are key players in this recipe, providing the signature tang that brightens the overall flavor. When you zest the lemon, make sure to only remove the yellow outer layer of the peel, as the white pith underneath can impart a bitter flavor. A good quality lemon can make a significant difference, so choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a vibrant skin.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in your soup is essential. When sautéing the chicken, ensure it is cooked through and nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. This caramelization adds depth and richness to the broth. Additionally, avoid overcooking the spinach; you want it to remain tender yet vibrant green, which should only take about 1-2 minutes once added to the simmering soup.

As you combine the broth and let it simmer, keep an eye on the overall sauce; it should thicken slightly but remain light. If it becomes too thick for your taste, you can always add a splash of additional broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. This flexibility allows you to personalize the soup to your liking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful soup:

Soup Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh spinach
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to select fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Spring Lemon Chicken Soup:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they're browned all over, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Combine Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Finish with Greens and Lemon

Add the spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pot, then season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of spring.

Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired for an extra punch!

Pro Tips

For a creamier soup, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Also, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite spring vegetables!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this soup at a gathering, consider making it a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. Simply prepare the soup and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a touch more broth if needed to bring it back to the desired consistency.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this soup freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding fresh spinach just before serving to maintain its bright color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This soup can stand alone as a light lunch or dinner, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also enhance the experience by sprinkling some croutons on top for added crunch or a dollop of crème fraîche for creaminess. Lemon zest over the top just before serving is an excellent finishing touch that ties all the flavors together.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding different vegetables like peas or zucchini, which can bring additional texture and variation. Feel free to scale the recipe up or down based on your needs; it's easily adjustable for larger gatherings or intimate family meals, making it a versatile dish suited for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover or rotisserie chicken can save time and still provide great flavor.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add peas, green beans, or even asparagus to enhance the spring essence of the soup.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just be sure to leave out the spinach and add it fresh when reheating.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and add tofu or more veggies in place of chicken.