Chicken Lemon Rice Soup Recipe

Introduction:

The video by Yumna from Feel Good Foodie introduces a refreshing twist on the classic chicken noodle soup, replacing noodles with rice and adding a bright lemon zing. This Chicken Lemon Rice Soup is vibrant and light, with the flexibility to be adapted for vegetarian or grain-free diets.

Ingredients:

  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Onions (plus scraps for broth)
  • Bay leaves
  • Chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound)
  • Rice (long grain or short grain)
  • Lemons (for juice and slices)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Thyme
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps:

  1. Prepare the Chicken Broth:

    • Use scraps from carrots, celery, onions, and a couple of bay leaves to make the broth.
    • Add chicken breasts to the pot and season heavily with salt and pepper.
    • Cover with boiling hot water (about 8 cups) and let it cook for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  2. Cook the Aromatics:

    • After cooking and removing the chicken, strain the broth and set aside.
    • In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté onions, celery, and carrots.
    • Add thyme and minced garlic, and cook until the vegetables are soft.
  3. Shred the Chicken:

    • While the aromatics are cooking, shred the cooked chicken using a fork or your hands.
  4. Assemble the Soup:

    • Add the shredded chicken and rice to the pot with the aromatics.
    • Pour in the strained chicken broth.
    • Cover and cook for about 20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.
  5. Final Touches:

    • Squeeze in the juice of two lemons (adjust to taste) after the soup is cooked to maintain a bright and fresh flavor.
    • Add a couple of fresh lemon slices and garnish with parsley.

Conclusion:

Chicken Lemon Rice Soup is a nourishing and comforting meal with a delightful lemon zing, perfect for colder months or as a year-round light meal. The recipe is a healthy take on traditional chicken noodle soup, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a feel-good, hearty dish.