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Cozy Crockpot Lemon Chicken Soup

cozy crockpot lemon chicken soup - featured image

A comforting and easy slow cooker lemon chicken soup with tender chicken, fresh lemon brightness, and wholesome vegetables. Perfect for cozy meals and quick prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (1.4 liters)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 2 lemons (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups egg noodles or gluten-free noodles (optional, 100 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the vegetables: peel and slice carrots, celery, and onion; mince garlic; zest one lemon and juice both lemons, set aside separately.
  2. Layer ingredients in crockpot: place chicken breasts at the bottom, scatter carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top. Add bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add liquids: pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, then sprinkle lemon zest over everything. Stir gently to distribute seasoning.
  4. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Remove chicken breasts, shred with two forks, and return shredded meat to crockpot. Discard bay leaves.
  6. If using noodles, add them now and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Taste soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
  8. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Notes

Add lemon juice at the start of cooking and lemon zest at the beginning to avoid bitterness. Cook noodles separately if storing leftovers to prevent mushiness. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for juicier meat. Adjust seasoning after cooking. Fresh lemon juice is preferred over bottled for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken soup, crockpot soup, slow cooker chicken soup, comfort food, easy chicken soup, healthy soup, gluten-free option