This Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect cozy dish! With tender chicken, veggies, and noodles, it’s flavored with zesty lemon and a touch of pepper for that extra kick.
If you’re feeling under the weather or just need a hug in a bowl, this soup is your go-to! I love enjoying it with some crusty bread for dipping—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing because of its health benefits and flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if needed, though the taste might differ slightly.
Onion: Yellow onions are best for this soup as they’re sweet when cooked down. If you’re out, white or even green onions can be used in a pinch, but they might change the flavor slightly.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. If you want a shortcut, frozen mixed vegetables can also work, but they won’t have the same fresh taste.
Chicken Broth: I always opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt level. Vegetable broth could be used for a vegetarian version, or you can make your own broth to make it even healthier!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is fantastic for saving time. Leftover cooked chicken, turkey, or even canned chicken can be swapped in as well. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas for protein!
Noodles: Egg noodles give that classic comfort food vibe, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like whole wheat or gluten-free noodles.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is ideal for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work if you’re in a pinch. You can also add lime for a different twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Chicken Broth?
A crucial part of making soup is the broth, and you want it to be packed with flavor. Here’s how to boost your broth:
- Start with quality broth—preferably homemade or a low-sodium version to control flavors.
- When adding the broth, make sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot from sautéing the onions. These bits add fantastic flavor!
- Don’t rush the simmering process. Let the soup bubble away gently after adding all ingredients to let the flavors marry.
- Adjust seasoning after cooking for a clearer taste. Add salt slowly until you achieve your desired flavor.
- A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup even more!
These tips will help you create a deliciously comforting Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup every time!
Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
For the Chicken and Noodles:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 ounces egg noodles or your choice of noodles
For the Flavor:
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra lemon juice if desired)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Additional lemon slices
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 20 minutes to cook. You’ll be ready to enjoy this warm, comforting bowl of goodness in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a tasty base for your soup.
2. Adding More Veggies:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sliced carrots. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring as you go. The garlic should be fragrant, and the carrots will begin to soften a bit.
3. Making the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat until it comes to a boil. You’ll want those flavors to meld together beautifully!
4. Cooking the Noodles:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add in the shredded cooked chicken and your egg noodles. Follow the noodle package instructions for cooking time (usually around 7-9 minutes), until the noodles are nice and tender.
5. Infusing Flavor:
After the noodles are cooked, stir in the thin lemon slices, lemon zest, black pepper, and dried parsley. Let everything simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. This will allow the soup to absorb all that zesty lemon flavor!
6. Final Seasoning:
Take a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and more pepper if you like. If you want an extra lemony kick, feel free to squeeze in some fresh lemon juice.
7. Serving Up:
Serve your soup hot, garnished with additional lemon slices, chopped parsley, and a light dusting of black pepper if desired. Enjoy this bright, hearty dish—it’s the perfect way to warm yourself up!
There you have it—your bright and zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Noodle Soup! Perfect for cozy nights or whenever you need a little extra comfort. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh carrots with frozen mixed vegetables! Simply add them to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they stay tender and retain their flavor.
What’s a Good Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings since vegetable broth can be slightly different in flavor.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to adjust the consistency since the noodles can soak up liquid as it sits.
