Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is perfect for cozy nights and gatherings. Its rich broth, zesty lemon flavor, and hearty orzo make it comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a casual dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. Topped with crispy fried capers, it captures the essence of chicken piccata in a delightful new form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have this flavorful soup ready in just 55 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy broth.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or as an appetizer for special occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with rotisserie chicken and fresh lemon juice, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Garnish Options: The fried capers add an extra crunch and elevate the presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools for smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Medium frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Grater
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Medium frying pan: Perfect for frying capers to add that crunchy topping.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

This creamy lemon chicken soup is going to be your new favorite for soup season! A super flavorful broth with plenty of lemon, orzo, rotisserie chicken, then topped with fried capers. This tastes just like chicken piccata in soup form!

For the Soup

• 4 cans (14.5 oz cans) of chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 3/4 cup light cream
• 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Fried Capers

• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Fry the Capers

Start by making the fried capers. In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium to medium-high heat. Drain the capers and add them to the hot oil. Cover the pan with foil and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until crispy. Once done, dry the fried capers on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Set them aside for garnish.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then add all of the grated garlic and continue cooking for another minute. Stir in the flour to incorporate it fully into the butter mixture and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and white apple vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to a low simmer. Add in the Parmesan cheese and light cream. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Chicken

Remove the lid from your pot and add in 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta along with shredded rotisserie chicken, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked through, remove your soup from heat. Ladle into bowls and top each serving with more Parmesan cheese, fried capers, and an extra wedge of lemon if desired.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This creamy lemon chicken orzo soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Each serving suggestion enhances the soup’s flavor and makes it a more complete meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Lemon Wedge: Serving with a lemon wedge allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus as they like.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor and crunchy crust of sourdough complement the creamy soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: This savory option adds a buttery garlic flavor that pairs well with the soup’s richness.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Mixed Greens: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers balance and freshness.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Achieving the perfect creamy lemon chicken orzo soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, quality chicken broth, and ripe lemons make a significant difference in flavor.
• Stir Frequently: To prevent the orzo from sticking, stir often while it cooks in the broth.
• Adjust for Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal even further. Here are some excellent options that pair well with creamy lemon chicken orzo soup.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic provide a healthy and tasty side.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
3. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip served with tortilla chips complements the flavors of the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives make for a hearty side option.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and ground meat provide an elegant touch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes might affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check your chicken broth, cream, and herbs for quality before cooking.
• Overcooking the orzo: Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Remove from heat as soon as it’s al dente to prevent mushy pasta in your soup.
• Neglecting to stir frequently: Orzo can stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir often during cooking to ensure even texture and prevent burning.
• Skipping the seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your palate for a balanced flavor.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Letting the soup simmer allows all the ingredients to blend harmoniously. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Note that orzo may change texture after freezing.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir regularly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for orzo in this recipe?

You can use other small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I enhance the flavor of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end for extra freshness and flavor.

Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just cook the raw chicken first, shred it, and then follow the recipe as directed.

Is this soup gluten-free?

This version is not gluten-free due to the orzo. You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any season. Its rich flavors and silky texture will surely become a favorite at your dinner table. Feel free to customize it with different proteins or add-ins like vegetables to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and savory chicken in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this soup is an easy-to-make favorite featuring tender orzo pasta and topped with crispy fried capers for an extra crunch. With its robust flavor profile reminiscent of chicken piccata, this soup will impress your family and friends alike. Ready in just over an hour, it’s both satisfying and nutritious—ideal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cans (14.5 oz) chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 3/4 cup light cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a medium frying pan, heat olive oil and fry drained capers until crispy. Set aside.
2. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat; sauté shallots and garlic until soft.
3. Stir in flour, then add chicken broth and vinegar; simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add uncooked orzo, chicken, lemon zest, and juice; cook uncovered for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fried capers and parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying, Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or basil. Substitute orzo with ditalini or small rice if preferred. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving to enhance the flavors.