Description
A light yet comforting chicken soup with ginger, garlic, and lemon that feels soothing and nourishing. Perfect for a simple meal that is both cozy and refreshing.
Ingredients
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, chopped
4–8 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
Lemon juice, to taste
Pinch of chili flakes
Scallions, cilantro, or Italian parsley, for garnish
Toasted sesame oil, for drizzling (optional)
2–3 cups chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms (optional)
Cooked noodles, rice, or grains, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add onion, celery, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Lower heat slightly and cook for another 3–4 minutes until vegetables are lightly golden.
- Pour in chicken stock and water, then add salt, white pepper, bay leaves, and chicken thighs.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Check that chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Simmer for 5 more minutes, then add lemon juice to taste.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve as is or over cooked noodles, rice, or grains.
- Finish with herbs, chili flakes, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil if desired.
Notes
Add extra vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for more nutrition.
Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs for a leaner option.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently and add fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten flavor.
Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 197 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
