Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup

Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup is a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tangy lemon, tender chicken, and hearty rice makes this soup a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on classic chicken and rice soup. The addition of lemon and cream gives it a velvety texture and bright flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

Ingredients

4 cans (14.5 oz or 411 g each) of roasted garlic chicken broth, divided
2 large lemons
3 cups of cooked rice, divided
1 cup of heavy cream
2 packages (6 oz or 170 g each) of pre-cooked, grilled chicken strips, cut into 0.5 inch pieces
0.33 cup of chopped chives
salt and ground black pepper, to taste
chives, for garnish
lemon peel, for garnish

How to prepare

Heat the broth, reserving 0.25 cup, in a 3- to 4 qt (3.78 liter) saucepan over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
Meanwhile, zest the lemon peel and set it aside.
Juice the lemons and set the juice aside.
In a food processor or blender, combine 1.5 cups of cooked rice, heavy cream, and the remaining 0.25 cup of broth. Process until smooth.
Add the rice mixture, remaining cooked rice, lemon juice, and chicken strips to the broth.
Simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until heated through.
Add the chopped chives and cook for 1 minute.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Garnish with lemon peel and chives, if desired.

Variations

Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas for added nutrition.
Use different herbs such as parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to prevent the cream from curdling.

- For a thicker soup, blend more rice with the cream mixture.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup gently to prevent the cream from curdling.

- Blend the rice with the cream mixture for a smoother texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cooked chicken breast instead of pre-cooked chicken strips.

- Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of chopped chives and a twist of lemon peel for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat.

Summary

Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its tangy lemon, tender chicken, and hearty rice, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Margaret was always a wonderful cook, and she had a way of creating the most delicious and comforting dishes with just a few simple ingredients.

As I walked into her kitchen, I was immediately enveloped in the warm and inviting aroma of simmering chicken broth and fresh herbs. Margaret was stirring a pot on the stove, and as I approached, she turned to me with a twinkle in her eye and said, "I'm making something special for lunch today. It's a recipe I learned from my grandmother, and I think you're going to love it."

I watched as Margaret added tender pieces of chicken, fragrant lemon zest, and creamy Arborio rice to the pot. With each stir of the spoon, the soup took on a velvety texture that promised to be both satisfying and comforting. I could hardly wait to taste it.

As we sat down to lunch, Margaret ladled steaming bowls of the soup into delicate china bowls and topped each one with a sprig of fresh parsley. The first spoonful was like a warm hug from an old friend – rich, creamy, and bursting with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs. I couldn't get enough.

After lunch, I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She explained that the key to the soup's velvety texture was in the method of slowly adding the broth to the rice, stirring constantly to coax out the starches and create a thick and creamy base. She also stressed the importance of using the freshest ingredients possible – from the chicken to the herbs to the lemons themselves.

I was eager to try the recipe at home, and over the years, I made it my own, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that to suit my own tastes. I even passed it on to my own daughter, who now makes it for her family on chilly evenings when a bowl of comforting soup is just what they need.

As I look back on that afternoon with Margaret, I realize that the recipe for Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup is so much more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It's a connection to the past, a reminder of the simple pleasures of good food and good company, and a testament to the power of sharing recipes and traditions with those we love.

I'm grateful to Margaret for introducing me to this recipe, and for showing me that sometimes the most delicious dishes are the ones that come from the heart. And so, whenever I make a pot of Lemon Velvet Chicken Rice Soup, I think of her and that cozy cottage by the sea, and I am reminded of all the joys and memories that food can bring.