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Mediterranean Chicken Soup – A Bright & Comforting Classic

Mediterranean Chicken Soup in rustic bowl
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Mediterranean Chicken Soup is a vibrant, wholesome, and comforting dish that blends lean chicken, fresh herbs, colorful vegetables, and zesty lemon for a fast and flavorful meal. Perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners, it brings the bright, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with nutritious ingredients and customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

Liquids

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 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

Optional Additions

  • 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

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince garlic, and prepare chicken pieces and fresh herbs by finely chopping them for even cooking and flavor distribution.

2. Sauté the Base: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, searing lightly on all sides until they turn opaque but are not fully cooked through. This helps lock in moisture and flavor.

4. Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to combine and bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

5. Simmer and Season: Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to cook through. Season with salt, pepper, fresh thyme, and oregano. If using orzo or grains, add them during the last 10 minutes to avoid mushiness.

6. Finish with Lemon and Fresh Parsley: Just before serving, stir in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. This adds brightness and a fresh, lively color to the soup.

Notes

Use homemade chicken broth for enhanced richness and depth.

Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Add lemon juice at the end to preserve its fresh, zesty flavor.

Prep vegetables and herbs ahead of time to speed up cooking.

Use fresh herbs liberally for authentic Mediterranean flavor.

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans.

To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes or harissa.

For a gluten-free option, omit orzo or use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.

Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last minutes for extra greens.

Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a subtle smoky undertone.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors improve overnight.

Freeze soup (without lemon juice) for up to 2 months; add lemon after thawing.

Reheat gently on stovetop, stirring occasionally and thinning with broth or water if needed.

Garnish with fresh parsley or mint and drizzle olive oil before serving.

Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/mediterranean-chicken-soup/