Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Lemon chicken orzo soup is a light, refreshing twist on traditional chicken soup. It combines tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor. Perfect for any season, this soup is easy to prepare and packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a cold day or a light, flavorful meal, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Here’s how to make lemon chicken orzo soup step-by-step.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts: 1 pound, boneless and skinless, cooked and shredded
• Orzo pasta: 1 cup, uncooked
• Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Chicken broth: 6 cups, low-sodium
• Lemon: 1, juiced (plus zest for extra flavor)
• Spinach: 2 cups, fresh (or kale as an alternative)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Bay leaf: 1
• Salt and black pepper: To taste
• Fresh dill or parsley: For garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

• Parmesan cheese: For serving
• Red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat
• Lemon wedges: For extra lemony flavor when serving

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5-6 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo and Chicken

1. Add the orzo pasta to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Lemon

1. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
2. Add the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Pair the soup with crusty bread or buttery crackers for a complete meal.
• Serve with a simple side salad for added freshness.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Note that orzo may absorb more broth over time, so add a bit more when reheating if needed.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’s best to cook the orzo fresh when reheating to avoid mushiness.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to adjust consistency if needed.

Helpful Notes

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice.
• Extra protein: Add a can of drained chickpeas or white beans for a heartier soup.
• More vegetables: Add zucchini or peas for additional texture and nutrition.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Ina Garten: Recommends using homemade chicken stock for deeper, richer flavors.
• Giada De Laurentiis: Suggests adding a little bit of lemon zest during cooking to enhance the lemony flavor throughout the soup.
• Jamie Oliver: Advises not to overcook the orzo, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Just shred and add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, but keep the orzo separate until reheating to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.

3. What can I use instead of orzo?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even rice are great substitutes.

4. Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, just omit the Parmesan cheese and ensure that any bread served with the soup is dairy-free.

5. Can I add other herbs?

Yes, oregano, basil, or tarragon can add different flavor profiles to the soup.

6. How do I keep the spinach bright green?

Add the spinach at the very end of cooking and serve immediately to retain its vibrant color.

7. Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and remain tender during cooking.

8. How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

9. Can I freeze this soup with orzo in it?

You can, but the orzo may become softer when reheated. It’s best to freeze without the orzo and add it freshly cooked when serving.

10. What if I want it even more lemony?

Add extra lemon zest or serve with more lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy this light and zesty lemon chicken orzo soup as a go-to recipe for comfort and flavor. It’s perfect for any time you crave a wholesome, delicious meal!