LEMON CHICKEN ORZO SOUP

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a bowl of hearty soup. This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a prime example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Bursting with flavors from roasted chicken, vibrant veggies, and tender orzo pasta, this Greek-inspired soup is finished with a zesty touch of lemon juice that brightens every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-warming lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• ½ teaspoon crushed rosemary
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• ¾ cup orzo pasta
• 3 cups cooked, cubed chicken breasts or chicken thighs
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 3 cups baby spinach
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil
   In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook until the onions and celery are softened, approximately 6-7 minutes.
3. Add the Aromatics
   Reduce the heat to low. Add minced garlic, dried marjoram, thyme, and crushed rosemary. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors.

Making the Soup Base

4. Incorporate the Flour
   Raise the heat to medium-low. Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Add the Broth
   Slowly stir in the chicken broth, making sure to mix thoroughly. Add bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Cooking the Soup

6. Simmer the Soup
   Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the orzo and cooked chicken. Cook until the orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Finish with Lemon and Spinach
   Stir in the lemon juice and baby spinach. Continue to cook until the spinach is wilted.
8. Season and Serve
   Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving. For the best results, serve promptly.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Choice: Any type of cooked chicken works for this soup. While rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, you can also use poached, baked, or grilled chicken breasts or thighs.
• Bay Leaves: Don’t forget to remove bay leaves from the soup before serving. They are sharp and could pose a choking hazard.
• Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta commonly found in the same aisle as other dried pastas. It adds a nice texture to the soup.
• Lemon Juice: For the freshest taste, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It provides a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the soup.
• Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze some of the soup, consider removing the portion before adding the orzo. Add the pasta when reheating to avoid it becoming swollen or mushy.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs in place of fresh. However, adjust the quantities since dried herbs are more concentrated. Typically, 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.

What if I don’t have orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with another small pasta shape like ditalini or even a grain like quinoa. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta or grain used.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove and add a bit more broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. For best results, freeze it before adding the orzo. When reheating, cook the orzo separately and then stir it into the reheated soup.

How can I make this soup healthier?

To make this soup even healthier, you can use low-fat chicken breast and reduce the amount of oil used. Additionally, you can increase the quantity of vegetables to boost the nutrient content.

With its creamy texture, robust flavors, and vibrant lemon zing, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a versatile dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Enjoy!