Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup brings comfort and warmth to your table with every spoonful. This healthy lemon chicken orzo soup combines tender chicken, rice-shaped orzo pasta, and bright lemon flavors in a light, satisfying broth.

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Last winter, I discovered this recipe during a particularly cold week. My family was craving something warming yet not too heavy. After trying several chicken orzo soup variations, this light lemon chicken orzo soup became our go-to comfort food.

The beauty of this orzo soup lies in its simplicity. Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this version keeps things fresh and bright. The lemon adds a Mediterranean twist that makes it feel special enough for guests yet easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Fresh Ingredients for Perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

The key to outstanding chicken orzo soup starts with quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the final flavor profile.

For the Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Protein and Pasta:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 lemon, zested
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

For Seasoning:

• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Choose chicken thighs over breasts for this lemon garlic orzo soup. Thighs stay tender and add more flavor to the broth. Fresh lemon juice makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled versions.

The vegetables create the foundation of flavor. Don’t skip the celery and carrots. They add natural sweetness that balances the lemon’s tartness perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Chicken Orzo

Making this fall soup recipe requires simple techniques that anyone can master. Follow these steps for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Base Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften. The vegetables should smell fragrant and look slightly translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 2: Build the Broth Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaves and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This creates the flavorful base for your lemon chicken soup.

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes. The chicken should cook through completely.

Step 3: Shred and Return Chicken Remove the chicken thighs and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat using two forks. Discard any remaining fat or gristle.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. This technique ensures every bite has tender, well-distributed chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo Add orzo pasta to the simmering broth. Cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

The orzo will continue cooking slightly in the hot broth, so avoid overcooking at this stage.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Elements Remove bay leaves and stir in fresh lemon juice and zest. Add chopped spinach and dill. The spinach will wilt quickly in the hot soup.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional lemon juice as needed.

Pro Tips and Variations for Greek Lemon Orzo Soup

These expert tips will help you create the perfect creamy chicken orzo soup without actual cream.

Cooking Tips:

• Don’t overcook the orzo. It continues cooking in the hot broth even after removing from heat.
• Add lemon juice at the end to maintain bright flavor. Cooking lemon too long makes it bitter.
• Use a mix of lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.

Texture Improvements:

• For a slightly thicker soup, mash some of the cooked carrots against the pot side.
• If you prefer a creamier version, whisk in 2 beaten eggs slowly at the end, similar to traditional avgolemono soup.
• Add more broth if the soup becomes too thick as leftovers.

Flavor Variations:

• Mediterranean style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives
• Herbaceous version: Include fresh thyme and rosemary
• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne
• Protein boost: Stir in white beans for extra substance

Storage and Reheating:

• Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator
• The orzo will absorb more liquid over time, so add extra broth when reheating
• Freeze portions without the orzo, then add fresh pasta when serving

Seasonal Adaptations:

• Spring: Add fresh peas and asparagus
• Summer: Include zucchini and fresh basil
• Fall: Try butternut squash and sage
• Winter: Add hearty greens like kale

Serving Suggestions for Your Orzo Soup Recipes

This versatile lemon soup pairs beautifully with many accompaniments. Here are proven combinations that enhance the dining experience.

Bread Pairings:

• Crusty sourdough bread for dipping
• Warm pita bread with olive oil
• Garlic breadsticks for extra flavor
• Focaccia with herbs

Salad Combinations:

• Simple Greek salad with feta and olives
• Mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette
• Cucumber and tomato salad
• Arugula with parmesan shavings

Appetizer Ideas:

• Hummus with fresh vegetables
• Stuffed grape leaves (dolmades)
• Greek cheese and olive platter
• Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes

Wine Pairings:

• Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc
• Light Pinot Grigio
• Greek Assyrtiko for authenticity
• Rosé for a refreshing contrast

Portion Guidelines:

• As a starter: 1 cup per person
• As a main course: 1.5-2 cups per person
• For meal prep: Divide into 6 servings

Garnish Options:

• Extra fresh dill or parsley
• Lemon wedges for squeezing
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Drizzle of good olive oil
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Conclusion

This lemon chicken orzo soup delivers everything you want in a comfort food recipe. The bright lemon flavors, tender chicken, and satisfying orzo create a bowl that warms you from the inside out.

The recipe’s flexibility makes it perfect for any season. You can easily adapt it with seasonal vegetables or adjust the consistency to your preference. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this healthy option satisfies without leaving you feeling heavy.

The Mediterranean-inspired flavors transport you to a Greek taverna with every spoonful. Yet the simple preparation means you can enjoy this restaurant-quality soup at home any night of the week.

Make this recipe your own by experimenting with the suggested variations. The base formula is forgiving and welcomes creativity. Your family will appreciate having this reliable, delicious soup in your regular rotation.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Emily

This bright and comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh lemon juice in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a light lunch or cozy dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Dish, Soup

Cuisine American, Greek-Inspired, Mediterranean

Servings 4 bowls

Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients

  

Soup Ingredients

• 2 cups Cooked shredded chicken preferably rotisserie
• 1 cup Orzo pasta
• 6 cups Chicken broth low sodium preferred
• 1 medium Onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup Fresh parsley chopped
• To taste Salt and pepper

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Add the orzo pasta, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
• Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
• Remove from heat, then stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving. Adjust lemon juice based on your preference for tanginess.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 285
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Vitamin C: 15% DV

Keyword Comfort Food, easy dinner, Healthy Soup, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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