This refreshing Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days. It’s filled with tender chicken, cozy noodles, and zesty lemon with a hint of dill!
Whenever I’m under the weather, this soup feels like a warm hug. Plus, I love how quick it is to prepare—sometimes I can whip it up in no time at all! 🥣✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth gives the soup a robust flavor, but low-sodium broth helps control saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead for a lighter taste.
Shredded Chicken: I prefer rotisserie chicken for its convenience and delicious taste. If you prefer, use leftover grilled chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts and shred them after boiling!
Dill: Fresh dill is ideal for its vibrant flavor. If it’s not available, dried dill works well but use only half the amount. You can also try fresh thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Noodles: Egg noodles offer a nice texture, but any pasta type like whole wheat, gluten-free, or even rice noodles will work in a pinch. Just be mindful of cooking times!
How Can I Properly Sauté Vegetables for the Best Flavor?
Sautéing vegetables at the start helps develop a rich base for your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your olive oil on medium heat before adding the vegetables to avoid steaming.
- Add the onions and garlic first, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 mins before adding carrots and celery.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
When veggies are softened, they blend beautifully into the soup, enhancing the overall flavor. Enjoy this aromatic start before adding your broth!
Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide pappardelle-style noodles
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. In just about 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook them gently, stirring often, until they are soft and fragrant—this should take about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor of your soup!
2. Add the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Turn up the heat a bit to bring the mixture to a boil. Watch it carefully, as it will bubble quickly!
3. Mix in the Chicken and Noodles:
Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and noodles into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Give it a stir now and then to keep everything well combined.
4. Brighten It Up!
After the noodles are cooked to your liking, stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste! This is what makes your soup bright and cheerful!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the warm soup into bowls. If you like, add a few fresh dill sprigs on top for a lovely garnish. Now, it’s time to enjoy every comforting spoonful of your homemade Lemon Dill Chicken Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen carrots and celery. Just add them to the pot along with the broth and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are heated through. Frozen vegetables are often pre-cooked, so they may take a little less time to soften.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time! Cook and assemble everything, but avoid adding the noodles until you’re ready to serve. Store the soup in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat gently and add fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the noodles absorb too much broth, you can add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this soup gluten-free by substituting the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary from regular noodles.