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There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken soup—but why not brighten it up with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender tortellini? This Sunshine Lemon-Herb Chicken Tortellini Soup with Peas packs delicate flavors and a lively freshness, perfect for any time you crave a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for around five minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Keep the heat moderate so the onions and garlic don’t brown too quickly.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Stir in the shredded chicken, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse the broth with flavor. This is also a great time to adjust your seasoning with a little salt and pepper.
Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring gently to blend their citrusy brightness into the soup. Next, toss in the tortellini and let them cook as directed on the package—usually about five to seven minutes. Once the tortellini are nearly tender, fold in the peas, and let them warm through for another minute or two.
Taste the soup once more for seasoning. If you want a sharper citrus flavor, feel free to squeeze in extra lemon juice. Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle each serving with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
All that’s left is to curl up with a warm bowl and enjoy the subtle lemony zing!
This soup is incredibly inviting for its delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a lighter twist on a comforting classic—ideal for weekdays, chilly nights, or whenever you need a quick, nutrient-packed meal. You can easily tweak it by adding spinach, using turkey instead of chicken, or substituting whole wheat tortellini for extra fiber. With its approachable ingredient list and fresh, zesty aroma, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for cozy evenings and friendly gatherings alike.
