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This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup strikes the perfect balance between lightness and satisfying warmth, making it ideal for any season.
Featuring lean chicken breasts, it packs a high-protein punch with 29 grams per serving, supporting muscle health and satiety.
The inclusion of vegetables like celery and carrots adds fiber and essential vitamins such as Vitamin A and C, contributing to immune support and digestion.
The orzo pasta provides moderate carbohydrates for energy without weighing the dish down, while the modest fat content—primarily from olive oil and butter—includes heart-healthy fats with low saturated fat.
The bright lemon juice adds a refreshing twist, boosting flavor without extra calories.
Beyond nutrition, the recipe’s straightforward method and 50-minute total time make it an accessible, comforting option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Its wholesome ingredients and flexible substitutions (chicken thighs, low-sodium broth) ensure it fits well into a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Soup Pot
Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly. Its high sides prevent spills and allow for easy stirring, making it a versatile kitchen staple for soups, stews, and one-pot meals.
Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
Ensures chicken is cooked safely to 165°F without overcooking, delivering perfectly tender, juicy meat every time. This tool is invaluable for precise cooking and food safety in any home kitchen.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Critical for accurate ingredient portions, especially with flour and seasonings, to maintain the soup’s ideal texture and flavor balance. A quality set supports consistency across all your recipes.
Wooden Spoon
Perfect for stirring thickening ingredients like flour into the broth and preventing the orzo from sticking or burning on the pot’s bottom. Durable and gentle on cookware, it’s a must-have utensil.
Vegetable Peeler and Knife
Needed for prepping the carrots, celery, and onion efficiently. Sharp, ergonomic tools save prep time and enhance kitchen safety, useful far beyond this recipe.
Lemon Orzo Chicken Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large soup pot
- 1 Instant-read meat thermometer
- Measuring cups (1 cup, 1 tbsp)
- Measuring Spoons (set)
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- 1 Vegetable Peeler
- 1 Chef’s knife
Ingredients
- 2 stalks celery finely diced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and finely chopped
- ½ medium onion diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- ¼ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1.5 pounds raw chicken breasts
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the diced celery, carrots, and onion. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and start to release their aroma.
- Build the Flavor Base: Add the minced garlic to the softened vegetables, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to avoid burning. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and continue to cook for another minute, stirring to create a light roux that will help thicken the soup.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to dissolve the flour completely. Mix in the Italian herbs, then carefully place the raw chicken breasts into the pot. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot with a lid left slightly ajar, and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through while infusing the broth with flavor.
- Cook the Orzo: Remove the lid and add the orzo pasta to the simmering soup. Keep the heat at medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom, until the orzo is tender—about 10 minutes.
- Shred and Return Chicken: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the chicken breasts from the soup and place them on a cutting board. Slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot.
- Final Flavor Touches: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Chicken Choice: You can swap chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture if you prefer dark meat.
- Cooking Safety: To ensure chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out, use an instant-read thermometer. The safe internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
- Broth Options: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness. Feel free to add extra broth when reheating leftovers, as the orzo tends to absorb liquid.
- Orzo Care: Keep stirring the soup during the orzo cooking phase to avoid sticking and burning on the pot’s base.
- Lemon Flavor: Adjust lemon juice quantity to your preference—some like a stronger citrus zing, while others prefer it subtle.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Soup
Achieving the perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup lies in layering flavors thoughtfully.
Start by gently sautéing the vegetables in both butter and olive oil to create a rich, nuanced base that combines creaminess with heart-healthy fats.
Incorporating flour after the garlic helps build a natural thickener, giving the broth a comforting body without heaviness.
Simmering the chicken gently in the broth allows the meat to stay tender and juicy, while infusing the soup with savory depth.
When cooking the orzo, stirring often and leaving the lid off prevents clumping and burning.
Lastly, fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens the whole dish—adding it too early can dull its fresh zing.
Using fresh herbs like parsley instead of dried at the finish ensures a fresh aroma and vibrant flavor.
A meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked chicken, preventing dryness or undercooking.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Meals
This soup is wonderfully versatile, making it ideal for a variety of mealtime occasions.
Serve it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of extra parsley or a twist of lemon zest for a fresh garnish.
Pair it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to add crispness and balance.
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm pita wedges complement the soup perfectly for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a cheese plate.
Leftovers can be reheated gently and even used as a base for a quick pasta or grain bowl by adding steamed greens or chickpeas.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
To keep your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup tasting its best, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
The soup will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Since orzo tends to absorb liquid over time, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to restore its ideal consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in meal-sized portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Avoid microwaving directly from frozen to maintain texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richer flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly if using bone-in thighs, ensuring they reach 165°F internally.
2. Is orzo the only pasta option?
Not at all. You can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even small shells. Cooking times may vary.
3. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Simply swap the butter for additional olive oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep the soup flavorful without dairy.
4. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The soup tastes great reheated and is perfect for meal prepping. Store components separately if you want to maintain orzo’s texture.
5. How do I avoid the orzo sticking together?
Stir frequently during cooking and keep the heat moderate. Cooking uncovered and adding enough broth helps keep the pasta separated.
This recipe is inspired by saltandlavender and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.