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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for the Soulful Chef

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a comforting, nourishing bowl of joy perfect for chilly evenings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 1 lb Chicken thighs or breasts Substitute pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe can be used for variety.
  • 1 cup Onion, diced
  • 1 cup Carrots, diced
  • 1 cup Celery, diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness to the roux.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Opt for cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Use homemade broth for better flavor.
  • 2 cups Water
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Adds creaminess.
  • 1 each Lemon (juice and zest) Ensure it’s fresh for maximum flavor.
  • 1 cup Fresh Herbs (Dill and Parsley) Consider thyme or basil for variations.
  • to taste Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Oregano, Paprika, Turmeric, Red Pepper Flakes) Adjust according to preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
  1. Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sear chicken until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add olive oil as needed. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for about 5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
  3. Make Roux: Add butter to the pot and let it melt. Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1-2 minutes until mixture turns light golden.
  4. Combine Liquids: Gradually add chicken broth and water, stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Return chicken to pot if using fresh.
  5. Cook: Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender. Stir occasionally to meld flavors.
  6. Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the soup along with orzo, lemon juice, zest, and any extra seasonings. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until orzo is tender.
  7. Finish: Stir in heavy cream and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Using fresh ingredients and tasting as you go can significantly elevate the flavors of your soup. Store without orzo for leftovers to maintain texture.

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