chicken orzo lemon soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken orzo lemon soup recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite chicken orzo lemon soup recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that everyone loves.

The combination of tender chicken, springy orzo, and tangy lemon is a match made in heaven. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make and how well it freezes for future meals.

My kids devour this soup like it’s going out of style, and it’s become a regular feature at our family gatherings. Plus, the health benefits of this soup are numerous – the orzo provides sustained energy, while the chicken and lemon offer anti-inflammatory properties.

It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved! The recipe itself is rooted in Greek cuisine, where orzo is a staple ingredient.

The technique of cooking the orzo until it’s al dente before adding it to the soup is key to achieving that perfect texture. I’ve experimented with various seasonings over the years, but the simplicity of lemon juice and zest is still my go-to choice.

It adds just the right amount of brightness without overpowering the other flavors.

Chicken Orzo Lemon Soup

4.9 from 1269 votes

A comforting and tangy soup featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a bright lemon broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
5Add chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf.
6Stir well to combine.
7Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
8Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
9Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
10Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
11Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and the soup has thickened slightly.
12Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
13Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
14Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife
Lemon zester

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 9g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes to taste. You can also add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Chicken orzo lemon soup is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a comforting and nourishing meal that’s perfect for family gatherings.

It’s great for meal prepping ahead of time, and it can be easily reheated for quick and convenient lunches. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

This soup is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s a recipe that I will continue to make and enjoy with my family for many years to come.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Orzo Lemon Soup

1.

Q: What type of chicken is best suited for this recipe?
A: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – whichever you prefer. If you’re looking for extra flavor, consider using chicken thighs with bones.

2.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian by substituting the chicken?
A: Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with an equal amount of cooked vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

3.

Q: How do I store leftover soup for future meals?
A: Cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing it. When reheating, make sure to bring it to a rolling boil to ensure food safety.

4.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with different herbs and spices?
A: Feel free to get creative! Fresh parsley, dill, or basil add a nice twist to the classic flavors. Experiment with different spices like paprika or cumin for added depth.

5.

Q: Is this soup suitable for a crowd?
A: This recipe makes about 6 servings – perfect for a small gathering or potluck event.

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