Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and refreshing flavor. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a bright lemon-garlic broth, it’s a nourishing dish that feels both healing and indulgent. Ideal for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you need a soothing pick-me-up, this recipe is destined to become a favorite.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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3 carrots, sliced into thin rounds
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2 celery stalks, diced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
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8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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8 ounces egg noodles (or your pasta of choice)
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Juice and zest of 2 lemons
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
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Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
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Remove the chicken and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Discard the bay leaf and return shredded chicken to the pot.
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Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 6–8 minutes, until tender.
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Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Stir gently and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
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Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Optional: top with Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
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Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and extra tenderness.
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For meal prep or freezing, make the soup without noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.
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Try adding spinach, kale, or extra herbs for variety.
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To save time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be used instead of cooking chicken from scratch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes