Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a soup that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors, you’re going to love my Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. This isn’t your average chicken noodle soup — it’s brightened up with lemon, enriched with homemade basil pesto, and loaded with wholesome veggies that make each spoonful feel like a warm hug. I love this recipe because it’s cozy enough for chilly evenings but still feels light and vibrant thanks to that zesty lemon and herb kick. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to soup, whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something nourishing.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe comes from simple, fresh ingredients working in harmony. From the rich chicken bone broth to the brightness of lemon and the herby pesto, each component plays its part beautifully. When shopping, try to grab fresh herbs and good-quality pesto — it really makes a difference.

• Extra virgin olive oil: I like using this for a flavorful, healthy fat that’s perfect for sautéing the veggies.
• Salted butter: Adds richness and depth to the soup’s base.
• Yellow onion: Gives that classic soup sweetness; make sure to chop it finely so it melts into the broth.
• Shallots: These bring a subtle sweetness and complexity — don’t swap them for more onion if you can help it.
• Garlic: I always add a good amount — it’s key for that warm, savory aroma.
• Celery: The backbone of many soups, celery adds a fresh crunch and herbal note.
• Carrots: Sweetness and color that balance perfectly with the savory elements.
• Fresh thyme leaves: This herb blends seamlessly with rosemary to build those comforting flavors.
• Fresh rosemary: Use sparingly — it’s potent but adds incredible fragrance and earthiness.
• Crushed fennel: My little secret for a subtle anise-like hint that brightens the broth.
• Salt and black pepper: The essentials for seasoning — adjust to your taste.
• Chicken bone broth: Using bone broth gives the soup a rich, silky foundation. Homemade is best if you have it, but store-bought works great too.
• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer thighs for juiciness, but breasts keep it lean — your call!
• Broccoli florets: Add a pop of green and extra nutrients; I like them medium-sized for bite-sized goodness.
• Basil pesto: This is where the soup gets its signature flavor — homemade pesto is wonderful, but a good store brand works perfectly.
• Baby spinach: Stirred in at the end for a tender, fresh green component.
• Lemon juice: Adds the zing and brightness that makes this soup unforgettable.
• Egg noodles: Classic and perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Chopped parsley: For a fresh finish and splash of color.
• Parmesan and fresh dill: Optional garnishes that really elevate the soup at serving time.

Variations

I like to make this Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe my own by swapping in different veggies or swapping the chicken for turkey during the holidays. It’s such a flexible recipe that invites your creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it fit your tastes and pantry.

• Add Mushrooms: I once tossed in sliced cremini mushrooms, which added a lovely earthy dimension that my family loved.
• Gluten-Free: Simply swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a grain-free twist.
• Spicier Version: A pinch of red pepper flakes definitely wakes up the broth—just add them with the garlic and herbs.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for hearty white beans and vegetable broth; pesto and lemon still keep it fresh and satisfying.

How to Make Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

Start by melting the olive oil and butter together in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. I find this combo gives the soup a buttery richness without being greasy. Toss in your chopped onions first, letting them soften for about 3-5 minutes until they turn translucent. Then add the shallots, garlic, celery, carrots, fresh thyme, rosemary, and crushed fennel. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes, stirring often so the garlic doesn’t burn and the herbs can release their aroma. This step builds the deep flavor foundation of your soup, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Add Broth, Chicken, and Broccoli

Pour in the chicken bone broth and crank the heat to bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, stir in your chicken pieces and broccoli florets. If you happen to have a parmesan rind lying around, toss it in now—it adds a subtle cheesy depth that’s fantastic, but it’s not a must. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. If you want to make this soup ahead, you can simmer it on low for several hours at this point — the flavors just get better!

Step 3: Shred Chicken and Add Pesto, Spinach, and Lemon

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Discard the parmesan rind if you used one. Stir the shredded chicken back into the soup along with the basil pesto, chopped baby spinach, and fresh lemon juice. This is where the soup really comes alive, with that herbal brightness and zesty kick. Give it a good taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Finish with Parsley

Bring the soup back up to a boil and add the egg noodles. Cook them for 6-8 minutes until tender but still a little chewy — you don’t want mushy noodles here. Once done, stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh finishing touch. Then it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of topping my bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a few sprigs of fresh dill when I serve this soup. The parmesan adds a salty, umami punch, and the dill contributes a delicate herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the lemon and pesto. Sometimes, a dash of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil on top takes it to another level too.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own, but when I want to make it a full meal, I love pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crusty slice of sourdough bread for dipping. Garlic bread also works beautifully, especially if you’re serving a crowd.

Creative Ways to Present

For a little dinner party flair, I’ve served this soup in rustic bread bowls — it’s such a fun way to eat and impress guests. You can also arrange garnishes separately so everyone can customize their bowl, adding extra parmesan, fresh herbs, or chili flakes as they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, but I recommend adding fresh spinach and lemon juice if reheating to brighten things back up. I find the noodles soak up too much broth over time, so sometimes I like to keep the soup base separate from the noodles when storing.

Freezing

This Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe freezes really well — I freeze the soup without the noodles for best texture. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw, bring to a simmer, then cook fresh noodles in the hot soup before serving. It’s a little extra step but totally worth it to keep the noodles from getting mushy in the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Toss in fresh spinach last minute to revive some color and nutrition. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the flavors fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Lemony Pesto Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe has become a staple in my home for all the right reasons — it’s comforting yet fresh, easy to make, and loved by everyone from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes one of those recipes you reach for again and again when you want something hearty, healthy, and downright delicious. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your family’s new favorite soup!

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