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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

4.7 from 21 reviews

A comforting and flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup featuring tender chicken breast, delicate orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a light lemon-infused chicken broth. Perfect for a nourishing lunch or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled & chopped finely
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Fats & Oils

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or to taste)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Protein

  • 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Then sprinkle in the flour and continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  3. Add Broth and Chicken: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to dissolve the flour evenly. Add Italian seasoning and place the uncooked chicken breasts into the pot. Bring the soup to a boil.
  4. Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, reduce heat to low, and let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes to cook the chicken through.
  5. Cook the Orzo: Remove the lid and stir in the uncooked orzo. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender.
  6. Shred Chicken and Season: Take the chicken breasts out of the pot, dice or shred them, then return them to the soup. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust lemon juice quantity based on your preference for citrus intensity.
  • Use low sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
  • Stir the orzo often to prevent clumping or sticking at the bottom of the pot.
  • This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, chicken soup, orzo pasta, lemon soup, easy chicken recipes, comforting soup