Description
There is something profoundly comforting about a steaming bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the tender bite of chicken, the silky texture of orzo pasta, and the bright acidity of fresh lemon to create a soup that is light yet deeply satisfying. It’s a dish that bridges the gap between hearty and refreshing, making it suitable for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
¾ cup orzo pasta
1 large lemon (juice + zest)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and oregano, sauté for another minute.
- Add the Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth. Place the chicken into the pot, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken and shred with forks.
- Cook the Orzo: While soup simmers, add orzo to the pot and cook for about 8–10 minutes until tender.
- Add Lemon and Chicken: Stir in lemon juice, zest, and the shredded chicken. Simmer 5 more minutes.
- Final Touch: Adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breasts work great.
- Pasta substitution: If orzo is unavailable, try small pasta like ditalini or pastina.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb more liquid over time, so add a bit of extra broth when reheating.
- Make it creamy: For a richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1½ cups)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg