Spring Garden Chicken Soup (Print version)

A light, brothy soup bursting with fresh spring vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and aromatic herbs.

# Required ingredients:

→ Protein

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz)

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
03 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
04 - 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
05 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
07 - 2 garlic cloves, minced

→ Broth & Aromatics

08 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 bay leaf
10 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Optional

13 - Juice of ½ lemon

# How to make it:

01 - Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, then sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.
04 - Add the chicken breasts, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until cooked through.
05 - Remove the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks.
06 - Add the zucchini and peas to the soup and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until just tender.
07 - Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice if using. Season generously with salt and pepper.
08 - Remove the bay leaf, ladle into bowls, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour but tastes like it simmered all day
  • The broth is so light and clean, youll feel nourished without weighed down
  • Everything gets cooked in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy
02 -
  • Pat the chicken dry before adding it to the pot for better searing and flavor
  • Dont rush the vegetable sauté, this step builds the soups character
  • The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together
03 -
  • Cook your chicken until it reaches 165°F internally for perfectly tender meat
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, broth needs more salt than you think
  • Add the lemon juice gradually, a little goes a long way
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