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Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Close-up of a white bowl filled with golden chicken orzo soup, topped with shredded chicken and fresh parsley.
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Make this bright, comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for a satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together quickly. This recipe delivers deep flavor without long cooking times.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy texture)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the orzo pasta to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8 minutes, or until the orzo is nearly tender.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the orzo is fully tender.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
  8. If you desire a creamy chicken orzo soup, stir in the heavy cream now.
  9. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a Greek chicken orzo soup variation, add a pinch of dried oregano with the thyme.
  • If you are short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; add it in step 6 instead of raw chicken in step 1.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep; the orzo will absorb liquid as it cools. Add a splash of broth when reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mayaplate.com/chicken-orzo-soup-easy-lemon-recipe/