Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe: A Cozy Classic with a Tangy Twist

This creamy chicken soup is a little different from the usual. I like adding a splash of lemon juice to cut through the richness, giving it a fresh, zingy edge. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug but keeps you alert with its bright notes. Perfect for when you want comfort but also a bit of a wake-up call.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Soup

It’s quick to throw together on busy nights but still feels special. The lemon keeps it from feeling heavy, even on cold days. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—whatever herbs or extras I have, they fit right in. It’s that unpretentious dish I keep making, knowing every bowl will satisfy.

What’s Really in the Soup? Ingredient Breakdown

• Chicken breasts: Lean, tender, cooks quickly, and takes on flavors well. Swap with chicken thighs for more flavor.
• Cream: Rich, smooth, adds luxurious texture and body. Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Lemon juice: Brightens everything up with zing and acidity. Lime juice works just as well if you prefer.
• Onions: Foundation of flavor, sweet and aromatic when sautéed. Shallots can replace for a milder note.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley or dill add freshness. Basil can give a sweet, peppery hint.
• Chicken broth: The flavor base, opt for homemade or low-sodium store-bought. Vegetable broth works if chicken isn’t available.
• Olive oil: For sautéing, adds a fruity, rich undertone. Butter can be swapped for extra richness.

Tools of the Trade for a Smooth, Tasty Soup

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: To prevent scorching and evenly cook the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring gently and scraping up flavorful bits.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To add precise amounts of broth, cream, and seasonings.
• Knife and cutting board: To dice onions and chicken neatly.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Silky, Tangy Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté diced onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add chopped chicken breasts, cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.

Step 3: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 4: Stir in cream and a splash of lemon juice, cook for another 3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste, then serve hot.

Cooking Checks and Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Soup

• Soup should be simmering gently, not boiling vigorously, to keep the cream smooth.
• Chicken pieces should be tender and easy to shred, not rubbery or tough.
• The soup’s color should be a creamy, inviting hue with a slight shimmer from the fats.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—balance the acidity and richness.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Too oily or greasy surface.? If the soup looks greasy, skim off excess fat with a spoon.
• Soup too dense or gloopy.? Add a little more broth if the soup is too thick before serving.
• Lack of creaminess.? If it’s not creamy enough, stir in a splash more cream and heat gently.
• Dry, tough chicken.? Overcooked chicken? Shred it finely and add back gently to avoid toughness.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Soup

This creamy chicken soup combines tender diced chicken breasts and aromatic onions simmered in flavorful chicken broth, finished with a splash of cream and brightened with lemon juice. The soup boasts a smooth, velvety texture with a lively, zingy edge from the lemon, creating a comforting yet invigorating dish. It’s quick to prepare and easily adaptable with herbs and extras, perfect for cozy nights with a fresh twist.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
• 2 pieces chicken breasts diced
• 1 large onion diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
• to taste salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs parsley or dill, chopped

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Heat the large pot over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm up until shimmering.
   
2. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it turning a light golden color and releasing a sweet aroma.
   
3. Stir in the diced chicken breasts, breaking them apart with the spoon, and cook until they’re lightly browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. The chicken should feel firm and be turning white all over.
   
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You’ll see gentle bubbling and a fragrant aroma filling the air.
   
5. Stir in the cream, watching as the soup becomes velvety and smooth, then add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Heat for another 3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to come together beautifully.
   
6. Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the top for a burst of freshness. Give everything a gentle stir, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed.
   
7. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with extra herbs if desired. The soup should be creamy with a lively zing from the lemon, perfect for cozy, comforting moments with a bright twist.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute cream with coconut cream. Feel free to add more herbs or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.