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Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe

Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe

Enjoy a zesty, comforting bowl of Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo, combining tender chicken, bright lemon, and delicate orzo pasta in a warm, nourishing broth. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy meals, this soup is simple to make, adaptable to various dietary needs, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta

Liquids

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)

Produce and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, forming the flavor base for the soup.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, sealing in the juices and prepping it for simmering.
  3. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to develop rich flavors and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Incorporate Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and continue simmering for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Monitor closely to avoid mushiness.
  5. Add Lemon and Season: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The lemon adds bright acidity that balances the savory broth.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or dill over the soup. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth if possible for richer flavor.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; add it toward the end and watch carefully.
  • Add lemon juice gradually to maintain balanced brightness.
  • Use shredded leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time and keep the soup moist.
  • Always garnish with fresh parsley or dill to enhance freshness and color.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (substitute gluten-free pasta for orzo)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: lemon chicken soup, easy chicken soup, orzo soup, comforting soup, quick dinner, healthy soup, gluten free soup option