How to Make Meyer Lemon Chicken and Quinoa Soup
This Meyer lemon chicken and quinoa soup is a hearty and nutritious recipe perfect for the cold and flu season. Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and the zesty tang of Meyer lemon, it’s a comforting dish that boosts immunity and warms you up on chilly days.
Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 boneless chicken breast (6 oz)
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, scrubbed and diced
- 1 cup shell peas or snow peas
- 1 stalk celery with young leaves, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely snipped (no stems)
- 1/2 teaspoon Mrs. Dash or other salt-free seasoning blend
- 3/4 cup quinoa
- 1 cup fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice
This recipe serves six, making it ideal for a family meal or leftovers for the week.
Directions
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In a 4-quart saucepan, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, peas, quinoa, seasoning, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally and allow it to cook for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
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While the soup simmers, cube the chicken breast and sauté it in a pan with butter and minced garlic. As the chicken nears completion, add parsley and onion, cooking until the onion softens.
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Once the vegetables are tender, add the cooked chicken mixture to the soup. Stir in the fresh Meyer lemon juice to enhance the flavors with a bright citrusy finish.
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Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy its hearty warmth and immune-boosting properties.
Tips for Perfect Meyer Lemon Soup
- Substitute shell peas with spinach or kale for added greens and nutrients.
- Use organic chicken and vegetables for a cleaner, healthier dish.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with tofu and using vegetable broth.
This healthy quinoa soup delivers a balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it the ultimate comfort food for cold days. The Meyer lemon juice adds a refreshing zing that elevates the soup’s flavor while supporting immunity.