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Mediterranean Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Soup is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish blending fragrant herbs, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken in a flavorful broth, perfect for nourishing your body and warming your soul. Easy to prepare and customizable, this soup offers a balanced meal full of Mediterranean flavors and health benefits.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, lean cuts, diced or whole

Aromatics

  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Vegetables

  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped

Herbs and Spices

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Liquids and Others

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Optional Ingredients

  • ½ cup orzo or rice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

    Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, forming a savory base for the soup.

  2. Step 2: Build the vegetable foundation

    Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot, stirring occasionally, and allow the vegetables to soften gently to bring natural sweetness and texture.

  3. Step 3: Incorporate the chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear lightly until they begin to turn golden, keeping the meat juicy and enhancing flavor.

  4. Step 4: Add liquids and herbs

    Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then add chopped tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30 to 40 minutes to develop rich flavors.

  5. Step 5: Finish with brightness

    Once the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or dill to add signature Mediterranean freshness and brightness to the soup.

  6. Optional Step: Add starch

    If using orzo or rice, add it during the simmering process and cook until tender according to the package instructions.

Notes

  • Use homemade or low-sodium broth for better flavor control.
  • Simmer slowly to allow flavors to meld for a richer soup.
  • Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley improve aroma and taste.
  • Season with salt later in cooking to prevent over-salting.
  • Avoid boiling chicken to keep it tender and juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken soup, healthy chicken soup, comforting soup, easy soup recipe, immune boosting soup, gluten free soup