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Mediterranean Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Soup is a hearty and healthy dish combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs in a comforting broth. This nourishing soup is perfect for any day you crave a wholesome, satisfying meal that warms the body and soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • Chicken thighs or breasts, skinless (about 1.5 pounds)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped

Liquids & Base

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces or keep whole thighs for shredding later. Gather fresh herbs and measure broth and tomatoes.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, creating a flavorful base.
  3. Brown the chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot and brown lightly on all sides to seal in juices and add caramelized flavor.
  4. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and add fresh parsley, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer to blend flavors: Reduce heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Add finishing touches: Stir in fresh lemon juice and optional greens like spinach or kale. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove herb stems for a smooth texture before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs to elevate the soup’s flavor beyond dried alternatives.
  • Take time to brown the chicken well to add depth to the broth.
  • Simmer the soup gently to blend flavors without toughening the chicken.
  • Add lemon juice at the end to preserve its bright, fresh aroma.
  • Homemade or quality store-bought chicken broth enhances richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken soup, healthy chicken soup, comfort soup, gluten free soup, easy chicken soup, hearty soup