Cozy Comfort: Roasted Basil Chicken for Soup Lovers’ Delight

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs / 680 g)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (30 g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper, to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (960 ml)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh, 240 g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional: ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml) for a creamy finish