Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas or ½ cup orzo
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa for a spicy twist
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale added near end
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor
Method
Preparation
- Chop onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince garlic, and prepare chicken pieces and fresh herbs by finely chopping them.
Cooking
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, searing lightly on all sides until they turn opaque but are not fully cooked through.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to cook through. Season with salt, pepper, fresh thyme, and oregano.
- If using orzo or grains, add them during the last 10 minutes to avoid mushiness.
- Just before serving, stir in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5g
Notes
To store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
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