Name: Chicken Artichoke Lemon Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons cooking sherry; 1 (15-ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained; 6 cups chicken stock; 1/4 cup white rice; 2 1/2-3 ounces baby spinach; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Why You’ll Love Chicken Artichoke Lemon Soup Recipe

This soup is packed with comforting flavors while still tasting fresh and light thanks to the lemon and spinach. The tender chicken thighs make it rich and filling, while the artichokes add a delicious tangy bite.

It’s also a one-pot recipe that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 ribs celery, diced
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons cooking sherry
1 15-ounce can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
6 cups chicken stock
1/4 cup white rice
2½–3 ounces baby spinach
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add the diced onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Push the vegetables to the edges of the pot and place the chicken thighs in the center. Cook for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.

Pour in the cooking sherry and deglaze the pot, stirring the chicken and vegetables together.

Add the drained artichoke hearts and chicken stock. Cover and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 10 minutes.

Stir in the rice, cover again, and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easy to shred.

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred it using two forks into bite-sized pieces.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and baby spinach.

Cook for about 3 more minutes until the spinach is wilted. Taste and add salt if needed.

Remove from heat and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for a leaner version.

Add carrots for extra sweetness and texture.

Swap white rice with orzo pasta or quinoa.

Stir in a splash of cream for a richer broth.

Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

If the rice absorbs too much broth during storage, add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating.

This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding the spinach and add fresh spinach when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well and will give the soup a slightly lighter texture.

What do artichoke hearts add to the soup?

Artichoke hearts add a tangy, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon and chicken.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if your chicken stock and cooking sherry are gluten-free.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Thaw and drain it before adding to the soup.

How do I make the soup creamier?

You can stir in heavy cream or cream cheese near the end of cooking for a creamy version.

What type of rice works best?

White rice cooks quickly and works best, but jasmine or basmati rice are also good options.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup reheats very well and tastes even better the next day.

Is the lemon flavor strong?

The lemon adds freshness and brightness without overpowering the soup.

Can I freeze Chicken Artichoke Lemon Soup?

Yes, it freezes well. The rice may soften slightly after thawing.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this soup.

Conclusion

Chicken Artichoke Lemon Soup is a cozy, wholesome meal that balances rich chicken flavor with bright lemon and tender vegetables. It’s easy to make, comforting without feeling heavy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. One bowl delivers warmth, freshness, and satisfying flavor in every bite.

Chicken Artichoke Lemon Soup