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Easy Lemon Rice Soup – Delicious and Ready in Under 30 Minutes!

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There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to soothe the soul and satisfy the appetite. Whether it’s the crisp bite of winter, the rainy days of spring, or simply one of those moments when you need a little comfort in a bowl, a meal with lemon rice soup always hits the spot.

But who says comfort food has to come with a hefty price tag? At Pennywise Plates, we’re all about creating budget-friendly meals that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

This Lemon Rice Soup strikes the perfect balance between light and hearty. It’s creamy, yet not too rich, with the bright, zesty punch of lemon and the gentle earthiness of dill.

If you’re someone who loves a classic chicken and rice soup but craves a bit of a twist, this is the recipe for you. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers and pantry staples you probably already have on hand.

chicken lemon rice soup in a glass bowl, a sprinkle of chopped dill, wooden tabletop
chicken lemon rice soup served in a black ceramic bowl and garnished with a slide of lemon and fresh dill
chicken lemon rice soup in a brown spotted ceramic bowl sitting on a wooden table with bread in the background
chicken lemon rice soup in a white bowl, modern kitchen, fresh dill on top

Lemon Rice Soup: A Recipe That Works with What You Have

One of my favorite things about this Lemon Rice Soup is how versatile it is. Leftover chicken or turkey? Perfect. Some cooked rice sitting in the fridge? Throw it in.

This soup turns yesterday’s dinner into today’s star meal. That’s what makes it such a pennywise dish—it uses what you’ve got and transforms it into something new and exciting.

Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re not the most experienced cook, this recipe comes together with minimal effort. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

And if you’re feeding a family, it’s always nice to know you’re making something that won’t break the bank.

Bright Flavors in Every Spoonful

What makes this soup really stand out are the bright, fresh flavors. The lemon juice adds a burst of acidity that lightens up the creamy texture, giving it a fresh and zesty kick. It’s just the right amount of tang without being overpowering.

And then there’s the dill—whether you use fresh or dried, it lends a subtle, aromatic note that pairs perfectly with the lemon and the savory broth.

The creamy texture of this soup comes from a simple combination of milk and cornstarch, thickening it just enough to feel rich without the need for heavy cream. That’s another bonus—this soup is lighter and healthier than many cream-based soups but still gives you that same satisfying comfort.

chicken lemon rice soup served in a black bowl garnished with lemon and dill, salad on the side

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While this soup is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A hunk of crusty bread for dipping is a must in my house—there’s something so satisfying about soaking up that creamy, lemony broth with a warm slice of bread. A light side salad also makes a perfect accompaniment, adding a bit of crunch and freshness to the meal.

And if you’re into meal prepping, this recipe is a dream. Make a big batch, portion it into containers, and you’ve got lunch or dinner ready to go for the next few days. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.

5 Simple Ways to Customize Your Lemon Rice Soup

Here are five easy ways to modify Lemon Rice Soup:

  1. Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of bouillon. Add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach for more substance.
  2. Greek Twist: Stir in crumbled feta cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a Mediterranean flair.
  3. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
  4. Creamier Version: Replace some or all of the water with milk for a richer, creamier texture.
  5. Hearty Addition: Toss in a handful of cooked chickpeas or white beans to boost protein and make the soup more filling.

Each of these variations is simple, budget-friendly, and adds a new flavor dimension to the original recipe.

Easy Lemon Rice Soup with Chicken

Recipe by Jessie
Course: SoupsDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes

This Lemon Chicken Soup is a bright, flavorful dish that brings a little sunshine to your table. With creamy rice and juicy chicken, this Lemon Rice Soup is both hearty and refreshing, perfect for when you need a quick, comforting meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make!

Ingredients

  • 1 c leftover chicken or turkey, diced

  • 4 c water

  • 1 c cooked rice

  • 1/3 c lemon juice

  • 2 vegetable or chicken bouillon cubes

  • 1 c milk

  • 2 Tbsp corn starch

  • 2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tsp dried dill weed)

Directions

  • Combine all ingredients except milk and cornstarch in a medium saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil, while stirring constantly. Then turn down heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Combine milk and cornstarch, and add to the pot about 5 minutes before serving. Continue to cook while stirring for 5 minutes, but do not boil.
  • Garnish with a bit of freshly chopped dill and a slice of lemon and serve.

The Bottom Line

This Lemon Rice Soup is a perfect example of how you can create something truly delicious and comforting without overspending. It’s a simple, versatile recipe that uses affordable ingredients and leftovers, making it a go-to meal in my kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a cozy meal for yourself, this soup delivers on flavor, comfort, and value.

Have you tried this recipe or put your own spin on it? I’d love to hear how you make this soup your own! Share your tips and variations in the comments below, and let’s continue the conversation about how to cook great food on a budget.

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