Description
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a cozy, vibrant bowl of comfort made with tender chicken, zesty lemon, delicate orzo, and a velvety broth. Perfect for any season, it’s rich yet refreshing—a family favorite for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Cook until no longer pink on the outside.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Stir in the orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Serve hot with bread or salad.
Notes
For extra lemon flavor, add more zest at the end just before serving.
If using rotisserie chicken, skip cooking the chicken in step 2 and add it in step 4.
Add more broth when reheating, as orzo tends to soak up liquid over time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: chicken soup, orzo soup, lemon chicken soup, creamy soup