This Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh dill, all brightened with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick.
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup after a long day. Plus, the lemon makes it feel refreshing, like sunshine in your bowl! It’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I usually use olive oil for a light flavor, but butter adds a rich taste. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil or even coconut oil.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have time, but store-bought low-sodium broth works, too. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter version or to make it vegetarian.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that’s perfect! For a vegetarian option, you could use chickpeas or tofu.
Dill: Fresh dill makes a big difference, but if you can’t find it, dried dill might work in a pinch—just use less since it’s stronger! Also, parsley is a nice alternative for garnish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you’re out of lemons, lime can be a fun twist, though the flavor will change a bit.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables correctly helps release their flavors, making your soup even better! Here are a few tips:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning while cooking the vegetables evenly.
- Add them in the right order: Start with onions, then carrots and celery, as they take longer to soften.
- Stir frequently, so they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Aim for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft but not brown.
Perfectly sautéed veggies lay the groundwork for a delicious soup!
Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 ounces egg noodles or wide egg pasta noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but aren’t fully cooked yet.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds or until you smell the wonderful aroma. This step adds a lovely flavor to the soup!
3. Combine Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture up to a boil, stirring it occasionally, so everything is well blended.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once it reaches a boil, add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. This keeps the noodles from becoming mushy.
5. Simmer with Chicken and Dill:
After the noodles are done, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded chicken, fresh dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, so all the flavors meld together perfectly.
6. Season to Taste:
Taste your soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—this is what makes your soup shine!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh dill and parsley if you’d like. It not only looks beautiful but adds a fresh touch!
8. Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy the bright refreshing flavors of lemon and dill combined with tender chicken and noodles. It’s a wonderful, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug!
This comforting yet zesty soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something light but satisfying. The lemon and dill bring a delightful twist to the classic chicken noodle flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it first. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, you can cook and shred it for the soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add additional veggies, like chickpeas or mushrooms, for protein and texture.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It might thicken as it cools, so when reheating, just add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Adjust the Level of Lemon Flavor?
Yes! If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, start with half the amount of lemon juice and zest, then taste and add more if you like. Adjusting it to your taste is the best way to achieve the perfect balance!
