Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup
A bright and vibrant soup combining tender shredded chicken with creamy arborio rice in a flavorful broth infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 lb cooked, shredded chicken breast Can use leftover rotisserie chicken.
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked arborio rice You can substitute with other rice types if needed.
- 8 cups chicken broth Bone broth can also be used.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Zest from 2 lemons is also included.
- 2 whole eggs Includes 2 egg yolks.
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely diced Adds sweetness and base flavor.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves Earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano For aromatic note.
- 1/2 tsp sea salt To taste.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper To taste.
- Chopped parsley For garnishing.
- Fresh or dried dill For garnishing.
- Aleppo pepper Optional, for garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add uncooked arborio rice, chicken broth, fresh thyme leaves, and dried oregano. Stir well.
Cooking
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together the two whole eggs, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Gradually add about 1 3/4 cups of hot soup to the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Blend the tempered mixture until smooth, then stir it back into the pot.
- Incorporate the shredded chicken and season with sea salt and ground black pepper.
- Gently heat but do not boil the soup.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, dill, and Aleppo pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For added flavor, a splash of lemon zest or cayenne pepper can be included. Substitute turkey or add vegetables such as carrots and celery for variety. Can add cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture.