Feta Lemon Chicken Soup: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening? Whether you're under the weather or just seeking comfort, Feta Lemon Chicken Soup is the answer. This recipe promises to deliver a burst of flavors with the tangy zest of lemon, creamy crumbled feta, and tender chunks of chicken, all swimming in a soothing broth. In this detailed guide, we'll explore every step to make this delightful dish at home, ensuring you can savor its goodness anytime.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Lemon: Juice and zest from 2 large lemons
• Feta Cheese: 4 oz of crumbled feta
• Vegetables:
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 small bunch of spinach or kale, roughly chopped
• Broth: 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
• Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon of olive oil

Preparation

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken:

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the soup.

Creating the Base

Now, let’s move to the soup’s foundation:

• In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and release their aroma.
• Next, add the carrots and celery. Cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.

Adding Broth and Lemon

Here’s where the magic happens:

• Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the chicken. These are flavor gems.
• Add the juice and zest of your lemons. The zest brings a fragrant lemon essence that will permeate the soup.

Bringing it Together

Now let’s merge all the elements:

• Bring the broth to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot.
• Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

The Final Touches

To finish:

• Remove the chicken, shred or cube it, and return it to the soup.
• Add the spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt in the soup’s heat.
• Stir in the crumbled feta just before serving, reserving some for garnish.

Notes for Perfect Feta Lemon Chicken Soup

🍋 Note: Avoid adding feta to the pot while cooking to prevent it from melting into the soup entirely. You want it to hold some of its texture.

🍲 Note: If using spinach, add it last; kale can be simmered longer to soften.

Serving and Presentation

Serve this delightful soup hot:

• Garnish with extra crumbled feta, a slice of lemon, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

As we've walked through the steps of making Feta Lemon Chicken Soup, it's clear that this recipe is not just about nourishment but also about crafting a dish that speaks comfort and health. From the meticulous preparation of the ingredients to the careful simmering of flavors, this soup brings a Mediterranean flair to your table with minimal effort. Whether you're looking to boost your immunity or simply enjoy a meal that's both healthy and delicious, this soup fits the bill. Its vibrant lemon zest combined with the salty tang of feta and the comforting broth is sure to make it a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this bowl of warmth and taste the zest of life in every spoonful.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

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Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Replace the chicken with chickpeas, white beans, or even tofu for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious!

How can I store and reheat the soup?

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To store, let the soup cool completely then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add extra broth or water if it thickens too much upon reheating.

What are some variations to add to the soup?

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You can enhance the soup with:

• Rice or orzo for a heartier option
• Other herbs like rosemary or basil
• Additional vegetables such as zucchini or peas