Description
Bright and comforting, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a hearty blend of tender shredded chicken, zesty lemon, and orzo pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this flavorful soup is ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- You can substitute orzo with another small pasta like ditalini or small shells.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add more orzo, but note that it will absorb more liquid over time.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of extra broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Lemon chicken orzo soup, comforting chicken soup, easy chicken soup recipe