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Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup

Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup

from foodandwine.com
30 min
4 servings

This healthy chicken soup recipe gets an extra burst of flavor from fresh lemon juice. Bonus: it's ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • extra-virgin olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • onion

    diced

    ½ medium
  • garlic

    minced

    3 cloves
  • chicken stock
    5 c
  • worcestershire sauce
    1 tsp
  • dijon mustard
    ½ tsp
  • cooked chicken

    cubed or shredded

    1 c
  • kale

    cut into 1-inch pieces

    1 bunch
  • fresh lemon juice
    2 tbsp
  • kosher or sea salt
    to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper
    to taste
  • freshly grated parmigiano reggiano

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    In a stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Stir in the onion and garlic and cook until soft and translucent, 2 to 3 minutes.

  2. 2

    Stir in chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard and cooked chicken. Bring to a gentle boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in the kale and simmer for 5 minutes or until kale is tender.

  3. 3

    Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cheese and serve hot.

About this Recipe

Zesty 30-Minute Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup

Craving a nourishing, flavorful meal that's ready in a flash? Look no further than this incredible Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup! This isn't just any chicken soup; it's a vibrant, healthy chicken soup bursting with the bright, zesty tang of fresh lemon juice, perfectly balanced with tender chicken and nutrient-rich kale. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick, delicious, and satisfying.

What makes this quick chicken soup so special? The secret lies in its simplicity and the power of fresh ingredients. The combination of savory chicken stock, a hint of Worcestershire and Dijon for depth, and that essential squeeze of fresh lemon juice transforms humble ingredients into a truly uplifting meal. The kale adds a wonderful texture and a boost of vitamins, making every spoonful feel both indulgent and wholesome.

Tips for the Perfect Bowl

  • Quality Stock Matters: For the best flavor in your Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup, use a good quality chicken stock. Homemade is fantastic, but a good store-bought brand works too.
  • Fresh Lemon is Key: Don't skimp on the fresh lemon juice! It's the star of the show, adding that signature brightness that elevates the entire dish.
  • Pre-Cooked Chicken: This recipe relies on already cooked chicken to achieve its 30-minute total time. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!

Delicious Variations & Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Chicken and Kale Soup is wonderfully versatile.

  • Greens Swap: Not a kale fan? Try spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens for a similar nutritious boost.
  • Herb Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley at the end would complement the lemon beautifully.
  • Add Grains: For a heartier meal, stir in some cooked orzo, rice, or quinoa during the last few minutes.

Serve this zesty soup with a crusty piece of bread for dipping, or a light side salad. Don't forget a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano right before serving – it adds a salty, umami finish that's simply irresistible!

Frequently Asked Questions