Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
Craving a comforting bowl of soup? Our Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup satisfies your hunger while delighting your senses with its vibrant flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a heartwarming starter, this soup combines tender chicken, refreshing lemon, and orzo for the ultimate comfort dish. Not only is it tantalizing and delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring everyone at your dinner table will be asking for seconds.
This recipe has been a staple in our family for generations. I vividly remember my grandmother serving it at every family gathering during the colder months, her kitchen filled with the warm aroma of simmering soup. It was more than just a meal; it was an experience of love and togetherness. Each spoonful brings back cherished memories, and it’s my pleasure to share it with you, hoping it becomes as beloved in your home as it is in ours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the great aspects of this recipe is its balance of flavors and how it elevates simple ingredients into a captivating dish. The brightness of the lemon paired with savory chicken and delicate orzo makes for a comforting, fragrant experience in every bowl. Additionally, the quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its nurturing warmth provides the ideal remedy for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Use fresh lemons to get the best zest and juice; it adds a delightful freshness that bottled lemon juice just can’t match. Oregano is the preferred herb, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like thyme or basil. If you’re out of orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini will work just as well, providing a similar texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. This forms the flavor base for your soup, so take your time here.
Step 2
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn as this could make the soup bitter.
Step 3
Pour in your chicken broth, diced chicken breast, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and infuse the broth with flavor.
Step 4
Add the orzo to the pot. As it cooks, the pasta will absorb the tasty broth, thickening the soup beautifully. Around 8-10 minutes should suffice for this step.
Step 5
Finish by stirring in fresh lemon juice, zest, and oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes before serving hot.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove until heated through. You may need to add a bit more broth or water if the pasta absorbs too much liquid during storage.
Variations & Substitutions
This soup is quite flexible, allowing for numerous variations to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences. For a heartier version, add chopped kale or spinach towards the end of the cooking process. To cater to a gluten-free diet, substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety. Additionally, feel free to experiment with proteins—for instance, swap chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it in step 4 with the orzo, helping it to absorb the soup’s flavors while gently reheating without becoming overcooked.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup becomes too thick, especially after refrigeration, simply add additional chicken broth or water when reheating. This will help return the desired consistency without compromising flavor.
Are there low-sodium options for making the broth?
Yes, you can opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added chicken broth available at most grocery stores, which allows you to control the salt level throughout the cooking process to suit your preferences.
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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Boneless and skinless
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned.
- Add diced carrot and celery to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo pasta and let simmer until orzo is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
