Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a perfect blend of bright citrus flavors and rich, savory broth. Made with shredded chicken, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables, it’s a one pot meal that delivers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a cozy bowl of goodness, this soup will satisfy your cravings.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make in under 30 minutes! The combination of fresh lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and hearty chicken broth makes this a standout dish for weeknight dinners. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for an even more satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 1/3 cups carrots, chopped (about 2 large carrots)

• 1 1/3 cups celery, chopped (about 2 large celery stalks)

• 1 cup onion, finely chopped (about ½ an onion)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups)

• 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

• Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil and melt butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.

2. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute.

5. Pour in chicken broth, add the bay leaf, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and Italian seasoning.

6. Bring to a boil and add orzo pasta. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.

7. Stir in shredded chicken and cook until heated through.

8. Remove the bay leaf, stir in parsley, and adjust seasoning to taste.

9. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: A Cozy and Refreshing One-Pot Meal

When it comes to comforting and flavorful meals, nothing beats a warm bowl of soup. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a dish that beautifully balances the heartiness of chicken soup with the light, citrusy brightness of fresh lemon. This one-pot wonder is perfect for any season warm and soothing in the winter, yet light and refreshing enough for spring and summer. Packed with shredded chicken, tender orzo pasta, and aromatic herbs, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a remedy for a cold, or a cozy dish to enjoy on a rainy day, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a fantastic choice. Its rich broth, infused with the zesty tang of lemon, pairs wonderfully with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, creating a soup that’s both filling and refreshing.

The History and Inspiration Behind Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is inspired by the classic Greek dish, Avgolemono Soup. In Greek cuisine, avgolemono refers to a soup or sauce that combines broth with egg and lemon to create a creamy, tangy flavor. While traditional avgolemono soup is thickened with eggs, this version simplifies the process by using orzo pasta, which adds body to the soup without requiring the extra step of tempering eggs.

The combination of chicken, lemon, and pasta is a popular one across Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, where citrus is often used to brighten up rich, savory flavors. This soup takes that inspiration and transforms it into an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that’s suitable for busy home cooks.

Why This Soup Stands Out

1. One-Pot Convenience

One of the best things about Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is how simple it is to prepare. Since everything cooks in a single pot, cleanup is minimal, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

2. Bright and Refreshing Flavor

The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest gives this soup a vibrant, citrusy kick that sets it apart from traditional chicken soups. The lemon not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of vitamin C, making it a great choice during cold and flu season.

3. Hearty Yet Light

Unlike heavy cream based soups, this dish has a light broth that’s still satisfying, thanks to the protein-packed chicken and the small yet filling orzo pasta. It’s a perfect balance between indulgence and healthiness.

4. Customizable and Adaptable

This soup is highly versatile you can tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences. Want to make it creamier? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk. Looking for more greens? Add baby spinach or kale. Prefer a gluten-free option? Swap the orzo for rice or quinoa. The possibilities are endless!

The Key Ingredients That Make It Special

While this recipe uses simple pantry staples, each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the soup:

• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing rich umami flavor.

• Shredded Chicken: A great source of protein that makes the soup filling.

• Orzo Pasta: Small and delicate, orzo absorbs the broth beautifully and adds heartiness.

• Lemon Juice & Zest: The signature ingredient that brightens up the dish.

• Aromatic Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onion, and garlic create a flavorful base.

• Fresh Herbs: Parsley and Italian seasoning add depth and freshness.

Each of these ingredients works in harmony to create a soup that’s comforting yet refreshing, hearty yet light.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it’s a complete meal on its own, you can elevate it even further by pairing it with complementary sides.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with This Soup

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

• Greek Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese pairs beautifully with the lemony soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Try serving this soup with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A crispy, melty grilled cheese adds an indulgent touch to this light soup.

You can also garnish the soup with additional Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is that it stores well, making it a great meal prep option. However, because orzo pasta absorbs liquid over time, there are a few key tips to keep in mind when storing leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If the soup thickens, simply add extra chicken broth or water when reheating.

• Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to leave out the orzo and cook it separately when you’re ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft. The broth and chicken mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding more broth as needed to reach the desired consistency. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so you can easily modify it based on dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute orzo with quinoa, rice, or gluten-free pasta.

• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy free alternative.

• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• Creamy Version: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

No matter how you customize it, the essence of the soup a comforting blend of tender chicken, bright lemon, and aromatic herbs remains intact.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a timeless dish that offers the best of both worlds: it’s hearty enough to be satisfying but light enough to feel refreshing. The bright citrus flavor of the lemon perfectly complements the savory richness of the broth and chicken, making it a standout soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a nourishing meal when you’re under the weather, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Best of all, it’s easy to make in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

So the next time you’re craving a warm, wholesome meal, give this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup a try you won’t be disappointed!