Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for lunch or dinner. Packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, this cozy soup is sure to be a hit with your family. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a dish to impress guests, this lemon chicken orzo soup will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: This soup features fresh vegetables and lean chicken, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious homemade soup on the table in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: The bright lemon juice adds a refreshing twist that elevates the traditional chicken soup experience.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is simple enough for kids to enjoy while being tasty enough for adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for busy weeks ahead.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: A good knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts

For Cooking

• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or to taste)

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How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating your large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the butter and olive oil, then sauté the celery, carrots, and onions until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Next, add the flour, stirring constantly for another minute to get rid of any raw flour taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth slowly while stirring until the flour dissolves completely. Add Italian seasoning along with the uncooked chicken breasts. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes so that chicken cooks through.

Step 5: Cook Orzo

Remove the lid and stir in the uncooked orzo. Cook uncovered for another 10 minutes or until orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Final Touches

Take out the chicken from the pot, chop it into bite-sized pieces, then return it back to your soup. Mix in lemon juice—adjusting based on personal preference—and garnish with fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Serving Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a flavorful twist.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added flavor and color.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest for an extra citrus punch.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
• Greek Salad: Try a refreshing Greek salad for a Mediterranean touch.

In Individual Bowls

• Personalized Bowls: Serve in individual bowls to make it feel special.
• Bread Bowls: For a unique presentation, use edible bread bowls to serve the soup.

How to Perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Making the best version of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it’s perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavor.
• Adjust the Lemon Juice: Start with less lemon juice, then add more according to your taste preference.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the orzo, as it can overcook quickly if not stirred often.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Shred the chicken finely for better distribution in each bowl.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
• Store Properly: If making ahead, store in airtight containers and reheat gently to prevent overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Complementing your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with the right side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients alongside your soup.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with lemon chicken.
4. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips dipped in hummus provide a delightful contrast in texture.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits topped with cheese add a comforting element to your meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa for a hearty side that complements the soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making lemon chicken orzo soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not chopping vegetables evenly: If the celery and carrots are not chopped uniformly, they will cook unevenly. Make sure to cut all vegetables into similar sizes for a consistent texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavors. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup. Always sauté your base ingredients before adding liquids.
• Using old chicken broth: Freshness matters! Using expired or low-quality chicken broth can ruin the soup’s taste. Always check the expiration date on store-bought broth or make your own for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Keep an eye on it and taste test a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The amount of lemon juice and salt should be adjusted based on personal preference. Taste your soup before serving and adjust as needed for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through; add a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make lemon chicken orzo soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together.

What can I substitute for orzo in this recipe?

If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice as substitutes.

How do I make lemon chicken orzo soup healthier?

To make this lemon chicken orzo soup healthier, consider using whole wheat orzo and low-sodium chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables!

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.

Final Thoughts

This lemon chicken orzo soup is not only light and healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for comfort food on a chilly day or something quick after work. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is!

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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that warms the soul, making it perfect for any chilly day. This comforting soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and al dente orzo pasta in a flavorful broth enhanced by fresh lemon juice. It strikes the ideal balance of lightness and satisfaction, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for family gatherings or meal prep. Enjoy a bowl of this zesty soup that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Sauté celery, carrots, and onions in butter and olive oil over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, followed by adding flour; mix well for one minute.
3. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring until flour is dissolved. Add Italian seasoning and chicken breasts; bring to a boil.
4. Cover slightly ajar; reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Remove lid, stir in uncooked orzo, and cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
6. Remove chicken to chop into bite-sized pieces; return to soup along with lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor. Adjust lemon juice according to your preference. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.