Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sticks celery, finely chopped; 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons flour; 6 cups chicken broth; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or to taste); Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Lauren

Published:

June 6, 2025

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This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those days when you need a little comfort. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a nourishing dish that feels just right. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a bright, lemony broth, with orzo adding a delightful texture. This soup brings the essence of homemade comfort to your table, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get you started on this delicious journey of flavors!

Why This Recipe Works

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe brings together a medley of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors to create a nourishing dish that anyone can enjoy. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty lemon makes for a soul-soothing experience, while the orzo pasta adds a delightful texture that complements the broth perfectly. It’s a classic that warms your heart and fills your stomach, making it an instant favorite for any gathering or quiet evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

You’ll fall in love with this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup because it captures the essence of homemade comfort food. It’s quick to prepare and relies on everyday ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. The refreshing hint of lemon brightens the dish, ensuring each spoonful is as revitalizing as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can customize it to fit your family’s taste buds.

Ingredients

2 sticks celery, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
6 cups chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked orzo
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

Sautéing the Vegetables

Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped celery, carrots, and onion, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This initial step builds the flavor base for your soup, making it rich and hearty.

Adding Garlic and Flour

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds to release its delicious aroma. Then, sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid clumping. This will help thicken your soup nicely, creating that creamy texture we love.

Incorporating the Broth and Chicken

Carefully pour in the chicken broth, stirring until the flour is fully dissolved. Add the Italian seasoning and the uncooked chicken breasts. Now, bring the mixture to a brisk boil. The chicken gets infused with flavor right from the start, making every bite more enjoyable.

Simmering the Soup

Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, reducing the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. This slow cooking process is where the true magic happens, as the ingredients meld together into a comforting bowl of goodness.

Cooking the Orzo

Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta, allowing it to cook for an additional 10 minutes. Remember to stir periodically to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The orzo absorbs all those yummy flavors, making each spoonful a treat.

Shredding the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup. This step makes sure that every bowl has tender morsels of chicken, enriching the overall experience of the soup.

Finishing Touches

Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Add the lemon juice, adjusting to your taste preference, and sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper as desired. The lemon juice really brightens everything up, bringing a refreshing twist that elevates the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup hot, garnished with extra parsley or a slice of lemon for added brightness. The vibrant colors will make your meal even more inviting. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that feels hearty yet light.

Tips for Success

Use high-quality chicken broth for enhanced flavor.
Adjust lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go to suit your preference.
Keep the lid off while cooking the orzo to reduce the chance of it sticking.

Variations

Feel free to experiment! You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth. Another great idea is to add spinach or kale for an extra dose of nutrients. These tweaks keep the dish fresh and exciting!

Storage Tips

Store leftover Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, do it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it becomes too thick.

Pairing Ideas

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a simply dressed arugula salad. Each pairing complements the soup’s flavors, creating a dining experience that feels special, even on a regular evening.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken in this soup?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie or leftover roast chicken works perfectly. Just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

2. How do I make it thicker?
To thicken the soup, simply add more orzo or let it simmer longer to reduce the broth.

3. Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze it, the orzo may become mushy when thawed. Consider omitting it before freezing and adding freshly cooked orzo when serving.

4. What if I don’t have orzo?
You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, or even rice or quinoa if you prefer.

5. How do I make it more lemony?
Add additional lemon juice to taste. Fresh lemon zest can also enhance the flavor without adding more liquid.

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its wholesome ingredients and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy each spoonful of warmth as you savor this comforting dish, knowing that every bowl is filled with love and nourishment. Whether it’s a chilly day or just a time for a comforting meal, this soup offers a refreshing take that is both satisfying and good for the soul.