When you’re in need of a comforting yet refreshing bowl of soup, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect choice. Packed with tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta, all brought together by the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, this soup offers both heartwarming satisfaction and a refreshing twist. Whether enjoyed on a cold evening or when you need something light yet filling, this recipe combines the comfort of chicken soup with the vibrant freshness of citrus.
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is an easy-to-make dish that uses simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. It’s a family-friendly recipe that can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With its fragrant herbs, savory broth, and a burst of lemony goodness, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
- 1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – provides a savory base for the soup
- 2 medium carrots, sliced – gives the soup a slight sweetness and a pop of color
- 2 celery stalks, diced – adds freshness and texture
- 6 cups chicken broth – the savory base of the soup; homemade or store-bought works well
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!) – the heart of the soup, providing protein and richness
- 1 tsp dried thyme – a fragrant herb that complements the lemon
- 1 bay leaf – adds a subtle earthy flavor
For the Lemon Flavor
- Juice of 1 large lemon – for the bright, citrusy flavor that makes this soup stand out
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped – adds freshness and color to the soup
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Begin by heating 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften and become translucent. The garlic will release its savory aroma, infusing the oil and creating the base for your soup’s flavor.
Next, add the sliced carrots and diced celery. Stir the mixture well, allowing the vegetables to sauté together for another 5-7 minutes. The carrots will soften slightly, and the celery will add a delightful crunch to the texture of the soup. These vegetables will not only add flavor but will also contribute to the heartiness of the soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth. The broth will serve as the savory base of your soup, creating a warm, comforting liquid that complements the vegetables and chicken.
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Using rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe as it saves time and adds depth of flavor. The chicken will begin to absorb the broth’s flavors, and the herbs will infuse the soup with savory goodness.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to meld together, and the chicken will continue to absorb the savory broth.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Once the broth has simmered and the flavors have melded, it’s time to add the 1 cup of orzo pasta. Stir the pasta into the soup, ensuring that it is well-distributed throughout the broth. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and cooked through.
Orzo pasta, resembling rice but made from wheat, will soak up some of the broth, thickening the soup slightly while adding a soft and chewy texture. Be mindful to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Adjust Seasoning
Once the orzo is cooked, it’s time to add the fresh, zesty juice of 1 large lemon. The lemon will brighten up the soup and bring a refreshing contrast to the savory base. Stir the lemon juice into the soup thoroughly, and taste the soup for seasoning.
You may want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference. If you like a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add more juice to enhance the citrus notes. This step is important for balancing the soup’s flavors, so taste as you go!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls and garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. The parsley not only adds a pop of color but also contributes a fresh, herbal note that contrasts nicely with the savory and citrusy flavors of the soup.
Serve the soup hot and enjoy its comforting warmth and delightful brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, which you can use to soak up the delicious broth. It also works well with a simple green salad to balance out the flavors and add some extra crunch.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor depth, consider roasting the vegetables (carrots, celery, and onion) before adding them to the soup. Roasting them will caramelize the natural sugars, enhancing their sweetness and bringing out a deeper flavor.
- Chicken options: While rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice, you can also cook your own chicken breasts or thighs and shred them for a more customized option. Alternatively, leftover chicken works well in this soup.
- Make it creamy: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking to give the soup a velvety texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat and extra complexity in the flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-free version: Swap out the orzo for gluten-free pasta, rice, or quinoa for a gluten-free option that’s just as hearty and filling.
- Vegan version: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute shredded chickpeas or tofu for the chicken. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of cheese to add a savory, cheesy flavor.
- Low-carb version: Replace the orzo pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. This is a great option if you’re following a keto or low-carb diet.
Pairing Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this flavorful soup. Try a fresh baguette, sourdough, or a simple artisan bread.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup and provide extra freshness.
- Lemon Slices: Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who prefer a more intense citrus flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit more broth or water to thin the soup, as the orzo tends to absorb liquid over time.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop, adding additional broth if needed.
3. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even broken spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
4. Can I make this soup without chicken?
Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using a plant-based protein, like beans, or by adding extra vegetables such as spinach or kale for a hearty alternative.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 6)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a touch of lemon for brightness, this soup is not only delicious but also highly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to serve at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Simple to make, yet packed with flavors, it’s a dish that will warm you from the inside out. Try it today and enjoy the comforting, zesty goodness in every spoonful.