Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup
Years ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, and I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit Kristin Cherry, Bothell, Washington
Years ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, and I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit Kristin Cherry, Bothell, Washington
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups cooked brown rice
- 4 teaspoons grated lemon peel
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-i
- 5 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 8 cups coarsely chopped swiss chard kale or spinach
- 2 large carrots finely chopped
- 1 medium lemon halved and thinly sliced
- Carbohydrate 17.9088413962774 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.15292012501409 g
- Fiber 1.97460071687972 g
- Protein 1.78525085627159 g
- Saturated Fat 0.194705977952498 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings (4 quarts). (167g)
- Sodium 4.64293422632468 mg
- Sugar 15.9342406793977 g
- Trans Fat 0.0816959685171137 g
- Calories 86 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.
- Add half of the chicken; cook and stir until browned.
- Transfer to a 6-qt. slow cooker.
- Repeat with remaining oil and chicken.
- Stir broth, vegetables, lemon slices, lemon juice, peel and pepper into chicken.
- Cook, covered, on low 4-5 hours or until chicken is tender.
- Stir in rice; heat through.
A Taste of Greece, Right in My Kitchen
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a real challenge. But let me tell you, this Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup recipe is a lifesaver! It's not just quick and easy, it also tastes amazing. The inspiration came from a truly memorable lemony Greek soup I had years ago at Panera Bread. It was a limited-time offering, and I was instantly hooked. The bright, zesty flavors, the tender chicken, and the comforting warmth of the broth – it was pure bliss. I knew I had to recreate it at home, and I’m so glad I did. Now, whenever I’m craving a little taste of sunshine and warmth, this soup is my go-to.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, and the cooking process is incredibly straightforward. I love that I can throw everything into a slow cooker and let it simmer while I attend to other things. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I don't have much time to spend in the kitchen. But despite its simplicity, the taste is anything but ordinary. The combination of lemon zest, juicy chicken, and hearty vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that's truly irresistible.
This soup is also incredibly versatile. I often adjust the ingredients to suit my preferences and what I have on hand. Sometimes, I add extra spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients. Other times, I might swap the brown rice for quinoa or wild rice for a different texture and nutritional profile. The possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it a perfect recipe for anyone who likes to experiment in the kitchen. It's a blank canvas upon which you can paint your own culinary masterpiece.
Beyond its practicality and deliciousness, this soup holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of those cozy nights spent with my family, sharing a warm and comforting bowl of goodness. It's more than just a meal; it's a moment of connection, a symbol of home, and a reminder of the simple joys of life. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down, not through generations, but through my own personal culinary journey, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. And who knows, maybe one day I'll even pass this deliciousness on to my own children, creating new memories around this simple yet extraordinary soup.
This Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a story. A story of simple ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece, a story of comfort and warmth on a cold night, a story of a busy mom finding time for a delicious and healthy meal. This recipe is versatile, adaptable, and easy to make, making it a perfect addition to your collection of go-to meals. But more importantly, it’s a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.
So next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal, give this Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup a try. You might just find your new favorite comfort food. I guarantee you, it's as delicious as it is heartwarming, and perfectly suited for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a special family gathering. Enjoy!
