Name: Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 3/4 cup orzo pasta; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Creamy, tangy, and incredibly comforting, Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is the cozy weeknight meal you didn’t know you needed. Bursting with tender chicken, silky orzo pasta, and brightened with a splash of lemon, this soup wraps you in a blanket of flavor with every spoonful. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, especially when the temperatures dip or your soul needs a little nourishing.

What makes this soup stand out is the luxurious texture created by the combination of chicken broth and a touch of cream, balanced beautifully by the fresh lemon juice and zest. It’s hearty without being heavy, making it a perfect choice for any season. Whether you’re nursing a cold, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For maximum flavor and tenderness, cooked shredded chicken thighs are a great choice. However, chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken can work beautifully if you need a quicker option. The key is to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces so it melts into the creamy broth. You can even use leftover roasted chicken for added depth.

Ingredients for the Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken provides the protein base and makes the soup filling.

Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all the flavors and adding a comforting texture.

Carrots and Celery: These classic aromatics build the base of flavor and add a pop of color and sweetness.

Garlic and Onion: Essential for depth, these aromatics infuse the soup with warmth and savoriness.

Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth brings the entire soup together, acting as the canvas for all the flavors.

Lemon Juice and Zest: The true star here. Lemon adds brightness that lifts the creamy broth without overpowering.

Heavy Cream: Just a splash for added richness and body.

Olive Oil and Butter: Used for sautéing the veggies and adding a silky finish.

Salt, Pepper, and Fresh Parsley: To season and garnish, enhancing every layer of flavor.

How To Make the Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil and butter. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes so the vegetables continue to soften and the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta directly into the simmering broth. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Cream

Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through, about 3-4 minutes. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Mix gently to combine without breaking the orzo.

Step 5: Brighten with Lemon

Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the citrusy notes blend in.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally with crusty bread on the side.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is best served hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side for those who want an extra citrus kick. Crusty bread or homemade garlic knots make the perfect dipping companions. If you’re planning to impress at a dinner party or just craving something comforting on a rainy day, serve it in wide soup bowls with a drizzle of olive oil on top.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Orzo tends to absorb liquid over time, so when reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring back that lovely soup consistency. This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months – just store it without the orzo and add fresh pasta when you reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just be sure to shred it well before adding it to the soup.

Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Absolutely. Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a splash of oat milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still rich and creamy.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or grain you choose.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to toss in spinach, kale, or peas during the final few minutes of cooking for a boost of greens. Zucchini also works well.

Can I make it in advance?

Definitely. Just keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb broth as it sits. For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it when ready to serve.

How do I make it more lemony?

Add extra lemon zest or a second squeeze of fresh juice just before serving. A dash of lemon pepper seasoning can also brighten the flavor.

Want More Cozy Soup Ideas?

If this Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is your kind of comfort food, you’ll want to check out these other warm and hearty bowls that bring big flavor with minimal fuss:

Creamy Shrimp Chowder for seafood lovers who want richness and zest.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup with exotic spices and a creamy coconut twist.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup if you’re craving something meaty and comforting.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup for a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.
Mississippi Beef and Noodles when you want a heavier, stew-style dish.

Each recipe brings something special to the table, whether it’s cozy creaminess, bold spice, or a nostalgic classic.

📌 Save this soup to your Pinterest cozy meals board so you always have it on hand for cold nights or simple comfort cravings.

And I’d love to hear how your Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup turned out. Did you go heavy on the lemon? Add greens? Make it dairy-free?

Drop your tweaks and tips in the comments. Sharing is caring—especially when it comes to soup!

Find even more of my daily kitchen adventures and comfort food favorites on Pinterest – Life with Nina.

Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired

Print Recipe

Description

This Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is creamy, bright, and nourishing—perfect for cozy nights or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness. Packed with shredded chicken, tender orzo, vegetables, and a touch of citrusy lemon, it’s a satisfying meal in a bowl that balances richness with refreshing zest.