This Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender chicken, bright lemon, and fresh dill, all mingling with cozy noodles.
Whenever I’m feeling under the weather, this soup is my go-to! It’s so easy to whip up, and the smell is simply amazing. Plus, who can resist noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: A good quality chicken broth is essential for flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use vegetable broth. Homemade stock is wonderful if you’ve got it!
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles lend a nice texture, but if you don’t have them, feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand like rotini or farfalle—just adjust cooking time!
Fresh Dill: This herb adds that zesty flavor! If dill isn’t available, dried thyme or basil can work in a pinch, although they won’t give the same punch!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the soup. Bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is always best for that zingy taste!
How Can I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Tender?
Getting tender vegetables in your soup is key for perfect texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Chop your onions, celery, and carrots evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Sauté them in olive oil over medium heat. This step is crucial! It helps release their natural flavors.
- Keep an eye on them as they cook, stirring occasionally until they’re soft, about 5-7 minutes.
This simple technique ensures your veggies are just right and adds depth to the soup!
How to Make Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a soothing weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté these veggies together for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.
2. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook it for another minute until it releases a lovely aroma. Make sure not to let it burn!
3. Pour in Chicken Broth:
It’s time to bring in the flavor! Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This will form the base of your soup.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once the broth reaches a rolling boil, add the egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until they’re just tender. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking together.
5. Stir in Chicken and Dill:
Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to a simmer. Carefully stir in the shredded chicken, fresh chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 5 more minutes for all the flavors to meld wonderfully.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finally, serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of dill or parsley if you like.
Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this comforting lemon dill chicken noodle soup! It’s a delightful dish that warms you up and makes everything feel better!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken off the bones before adding it to the soup.
Can I Substitute the Noodles?
Yes! If you don’t have egg noodles, any pasta like rotini or even rice can work. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the alternative you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider storing the noodles separately, as they can become mushy over time!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth to maintain consistency after thawing.
