Description
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a light, refreshing, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft orzo pasta, and a bright, tangy lemon broth. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal, with the citrusy kick of lemon adding a fresh twist to the savory chicken and vegetables. It’s easy to make and is perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup orzo pasta
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cups baby spinach (optional, for added greens)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Additional lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to rest. Once cool enough to handle, shred or chop into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta, thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and vegetables are cooked.
- Add the Chicken and Lemon: Stir in the shredded chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Add zucchini or yellow squash for extra veggies.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo for a healthier or gluten-free option.
Add cream for a richer soup.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: Varies depending on ingredients used
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Varies depending on chicken and olive oil used
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: Varies
- Protein: Varies
- Cholesterol: Varies depending on chicken used
