Description
A bright and slightly smoky chicken soup with tender chicken and soft vegetables, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas or ½ cup orzo
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa (for spicy twist)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (added near end)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke (for smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Chop onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince garlic, and prepare chicken pieces and fresh herbs.
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, searing lightly on all sides until they turn opaque.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley just before serving.
- Add fresh spinach or kale near the end so they wilt but retain color.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or warm pita. Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg