Description
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting and refreshing bowl of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and rich plant-based cream blending fresh flavors with a velvety texture. Perfect for any season, this nourishing soup offers vibrant citrus brightness balanced with hearty protein and satisfying creaminess, making it ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- Tender chicken breast, bite-sized pieces (about 1 lb)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
Liquids and Base
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup plant-based cream
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Grains
- 1/2 cup rice or orzo
Citrus
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
Herbs and Garnishes
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
- Olive oil for sautéing and optional drizzle
- Optional thin lemon slices and fresh cracked black pepper for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing until soft and fragrant to build a flavorful base.
- Cook the Chicken: Add bite-sized chicken breast pieces to the pot and cook until the outside is white but not completely cooked through, allowing them to finish cooking gently in the broth.
- Add Broth and Grains: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the rice or orzo and cook until tender, letting the grains absorb the citrusy flavors of the soup.
- Finish with Lemon and Cream: Lower the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, plant-based cream, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Warm through gently without boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
- Toss in Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, fold in chopped fresh dill or parsley for vibrant color and fresh herbal aroma.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the brightest citrus flavor.
- Cook chicken gently to keep it tender and juicy.
- Add plant-based cream slowly over low heat to prevent curdling.
- Keep soup at a gentle simmer after adding cream and lemon to maintain texture.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve vibrant flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Greek lemon chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, plant-based cream soup, lemon chicken soup, comforting soup, dairy-free soup