This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is bright, comforting, and packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon flavor. It’s the perfect balance of light and hearty, making it ideal for any time of year. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal your whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 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 or diced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Refreshing: The lemon adds a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the savory broth.
• Hearty and Wholesome: Packed with protein, veggies, and pasta for a satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the veggies, herbs, or pasta to suit your taste.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Build the Soup Base

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.

3. Add the Orzo and Cook

• Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Add Chicken and Lemon

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
• Let the soup simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken and infuse the soup with lemon flavor.

5. Taste and Adjust

• Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: A light green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle a little on top for extra richness.

Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

1. Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a big difference in flavor.
2. Prevent Overcooked Orzo: Cook the orzo just until tender to avoid it becoming mushy.
3. Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra nutrients.
4. Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin the soup.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note: Cook the orzo fresh when reheating for best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and freshness, making it a must-have recipe for your collection. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or a remedy for cold days, it’s sure to hit the spot.

Let me know how yours turns out—and don’t forget to share your favorite twists or garnishes! 🍋