Name: Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; ¼ cup breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons lemon zest (plus extra for topping); 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan (plus more for topping); 4 garlic cloves (minced); kosher salt (and pepper); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 sweet onion (diced); 2 celery stalks (diced); 1 parmesan rind; 6 cups chicken stock; 10 ounces frozen spinach; 12 ounces tiny cut pasta (like ditalini or annellini); 1 lemon (juice freshly squeezed); lemon wedges (for serving)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup. Imagine returning home after a chilly winter’s day, the aroma of tender meatballs simmering in a flavorful broth inviting you into the kitchen. The tangy notes of lemon mingling with the heartiness of the chicken and fresh vegetables create a dish that warms your spirit. This Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is not just food; it’s an experience, a hug in a bowl that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. I remember the first time I made this soup; the kitchen filled with laughter and stories as we savored each delicious spoonful. It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for any winter night.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Grater, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

Why This Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup Is So Good

Comforting and Hearty

The first reason I adore this Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is its comforting nature. It’s a meal that wraps you in warmth, making you feel at home no matter where you are. The combination of tender meatballs and rich broth offers a satisfying and hearty feel that’s hard to resist.

Bright and Fresh Flavor

The zesty kick of lemon brings a vibrancy that brightens up the dish. Every bite is a burst of freshness, elevating the overall flavor profile. It’s a perfect way to add a little sunshine to your table, especially during the drearier winter months.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With simple steps, you can have a delightful meal ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to compromise on taste or quality.

Customizable Ingredients

This soup is also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you want to add more vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or even swap out the pasta, it’s a dish that can adapt to your preferences.

Perfect for Sharing

Lastly, this Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is perfect for sharing. It’s a great dish for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The recipe yields enough to serve everyone, and watching the smiles on their faces as they enjoy this cozy bowl of goodness is the ultimate reward.

Recipe Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup

For any great dish, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. In this Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a flavorful and comforting experience. The blend of fresh chicken, zesty lemon, and hearty vegetables work together harmoniously to create a soup that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing.

1 pound ground chicken
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons lemon zest, plus extra for topping
2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan, plus more for topping
4 garlic cloves, minced
kosher salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 sweet onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 parmesan rind
6 cups chicken stock
10 ounces frozen spinach
12 ounces tiny cut pasta, like ditalini or annellini
1 lemon, juice freshly squeezed
lemon wedges, for serving

How to Cook Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup

Cooking this Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is a delightful experience that combines preparation and patience. Follow these steps to create a warm, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone. Let’s get started!

In a bowl, combine the ground chicken with the breadcrumbs, finely grated parmesan, half of the minced garlic, lemon zest, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until just combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the mixture. Gently form the mixture into mini meatballs about one inch in diameter.
Heat a large stock pot over medium heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. It’s important not to crowd the pot, so do this in batches if necessary. Brown them on all sides, which should take about eight to ten minutes. When they’re nicely browned, remove them from the pot and place them on a plate.
With the pot still on medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the diced onion, celery, and the remaining minced garlic, along with a pinch of salt. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are translucent and fragrant.
Return the browned meatballs to the pot, nestling them among the onion and celery. Pour in the chicken stock and add the parmesan rind. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld together.
Once simmering, stir in the frozen spinach and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This adds a lovely brightness to the soup. Then, add the tiny cut pasta of your choice. Allow the mixture to cook uncovered, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, which should take about ten minutes.
After the pasta reaches the desired texture, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The meatballs should be fully cooked through at this point.
Serve the soup in bowls, garnishing each serving with more grated parmesan, fresh lemon zest, and lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones!

Things Worth Knowing

Meatball Texture: When forming your meatballs, aim for a light touch. Overworking them can lead to a dense texture, so mix just until combined.
Broth Flavor: To enhance the flavor of your soup, use homemade chicken stock if possible. It adds depth and richness that store-bought versions may lack.
Pasta Cooking: Keep a close eye on your pasta as it cooks. Stirring often helps ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Storage Tips: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about the Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is its versatility. Here are some customization ideas that will help make this dish your own:

Storage: To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Just make sure to freeze it without the pasta. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, adding freshly cooked pasta.
Protein Options: While chicken is traditional, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or even a mix of proteins to suit your taste.
Veggie Additions: Add in other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and color. Just chop them small, so they cook quickly.
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for some heat.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Consider adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a pop of freshness.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup

When it comes to serving your Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

Perfect Pairing: Serve the soup alongside a fresh garden salad to add some crunch and balance out the meal.
Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the broth.
Cozy Dinner: This soup is a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings, providing warmth and comfort to everyone at the table.
Lunch Delight: It also works great as a hearty lunch option. Just heat it up and enjoy a filling meal any time of the day.
Seasonal Touch: For a seasonal touch, consider serving this soup during holiday gatherings as a comforting starter.
Storage Convenience: If you make a large batch, store it in individual portions for quick and easy lunches throughout the week.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use frozen ground chicken for the meatballs. Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing in the breadcrumbs and seasoning. This will help ensure the meatballs hold their shape and cook evenly.

This soup pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple pasta salad. The bright flavors of the soup complement a variety of sides, making it versatile for any occasion.

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it without the pasta and adding freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Yes! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different proteins may require adjustments.

Conclusion

The Lemon Chicken Meatball Soup is a special dish that combines comfort and vibrant flavors in every bite. With its tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon, it’s a meal that everyone will love. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your home just as it is in mine.