The Best Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe for Rainy Days

Comfort arrives in a steaming bowl of zesty lemon chicken orzo soup that promises warmth and nourishment.

Tender chicken pieces float alongside soft orzo pasta in a bright, aromatic broth.

Vibrant herbs and fresh lemon juice create a delightful harmony of flavors in each spoonful.

Hearty yet light, this soup stands as a perfect remedy for chilly days or when you need a nutritious meal.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with elegant technique to deliver a satisfying dining experience.

Mediterranean influences shine through in this soul-warming dish that comes together quickly and effortlessly.

Grab a ladle and let this soup transport you to a cozy culinary haven.

Why Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Feels Fresh

• This soup is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels who want a delicious and satisfying dish without complicated techniques.
• Packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and protein-rich orzo, this soup delivers a balanced meal that nourishes and fills you up with wholesome goodness.
• The recipe offers amazing flexibility, allowing you to adjust seasoning, increase lemon brightness, or swap ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen, making it a versatile go-to meal.
• Ideal for chilly days, sick days, or when you need a soul-soothing meal that feels like a warm hug, this lemon chicken orzo soup provides instant comfort and healing vibes.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Chicken Broth: This liquid forms the foundation of the soup, providing depth and richness to the overall flavor.
• Butter: Adds a creamy, rich undertone to the soup's base.
• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the vegetables and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Flour: Creates a slight thickening effect for the soup's consistency.

• Onion, Celery, Carrots: These aromatic vegetables provide a classic flavor base and add nutritional value to the soup.
• Garlic: Brings a robust, intense flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• Chicken Breasts: The main protein that gives the soup substance and heartiness.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh herb note to finish the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the soup's flavors.

• Orzo Pasta: A small pasta that adds texture and makes the soup more filling.
• Lemon Juice: Brings a tangy, bright flavor that cuts through the richness of the soup.

How to Cook Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Vessel

Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat.

Add butter and olive oil to create a rich base.

• Celery
• Carrots
• Onion

Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they soften and onions become translucent, releasing a delightful aroma.

Step 2: Introduce Garlic and Flour

Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Sprinkle flour into the pot and mix for one minute.

The mixture might look clumpy, but don’t worry – it will blend smoothly later.

Step 3: Build the Soup Foundation

Pour chicken broth into the pot, stirring to dissolve the flour completely.

Add Italian seasoning and place whole chicken breasts directly into the liquid.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

Cover partially and simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add orzo to the pot and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.

Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

The pasta is ready when tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish and Season

Remove chicken breasts and shred using a fork.

Return shredded chicken to the pot.

• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The lemon should provide a bright, tangy undertone to the soup.

Lemon Chicken Soup Cooking Tips

• Stir the orzo frequently during cooking to stop it from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Sauté vegetables until they're soft and translucent to release their natural sweetness and create a richer soup base.
• Add flour gradually and stir well to create a smooth, slightly thickened broth without lumps.
• Adjust lemon juice amount to suit your taste preference, starting with less and adding more for a brighter, tangier flavor.
• This soup freezes well for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Store and Reheat Orzo Soup

• Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Pour soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Orzo may soften slightly upon thawing.
• Warm soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore original consistency if needed. Heat until steaming and thoroughly warm.
• Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Check temperature and add extra broth if soup seems too thick.

What Pairs with Lemon Orzo Soup

Perfect Food and Drink Pairings

• Crisp Side Salad: Toss a light green salad with arugula, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette to complement the soup's citrusy notes and provide a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve warm, rustic sourdough or a hearty ciabatta to soak up the rich broth and add a delightful textural element to your meal.
• Crisp White Wine Pairing: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that mirrors the lemon's tanginess and cuts through the soup's creamy texture.
• Herbal Iced Tea: Brew a light, refreshing mint or lemon verbena iced tea to enhance the soup's herbal undertones and provide a cooling accompaniment.

Lemon Orzo Soup Flavor Ideas

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free chicken broth to ensure complete gluten-free status. Swap regular orzo with gluten-free rice orzo or quinoa for a safe alternative.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Eliminate butter and use extra olive oil or coconut oil. Select plant-based chicken broth to maintain rich flavor profile. Keep all other ingredients consistent with original recipe.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use additional protein like extra chicken or white fish. Reduce total liquid slightly to maintain soup consistency.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with firm tofu or white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary for depth of flavor. Include nutritional yeast for umami undertones.

FAQs

• Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with protein from chicken, vegetables like carrots and celery, and orzo provides complex carbohydrates. The lemon adds vitamin C and helps boost the immune system.

• Can I use different types of protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just ensure the protein is cooked and tender.

• How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa or rice to maintain the soup’s texture and nutritional value.

• What herbs work best in this recipe?

Italian seasoning is perfect, but you can also use fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano. These herbs complement the lemon and chicken flavors beautifully and add depth to the soup.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting lemon chicken orzo soup delivers Mediterranean warmth with zesty citrus and tender chicken nestled in a hearty broth. Delicate herbs and orzo pasta create a soul-soothing experience you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) uncooked chicken breasts

Vegetables:

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 3 minced garlic cloves

Cooking and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup (200 grams) uncooked orzo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Combine butter and olive oil to create a rich base. Add chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent, releasing a fragrant aroma.
2. Introduce minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Dust flour over the vegetables, stirring for one minute to create a slightly thickened texture. The mixture may appear clumpy initially but will smooth out.
3. Stream chicken broth into the pot, ensuring flour dissolves completely. Incorporate Italian seasoning and submerge whole chicken breasts. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat. Partially cover and simmer for 15 minutes at low temperature, allowing chicken to cook thoroughly.
4. Add orzo directly into the simmering liquid. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender but maintain a slight firmness.
5. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred using two forks. Return shredded meat to the pot. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The final soup should have a bright, tangy flavor with herbs complementing the chicken and vegetables.

Notes

• Enhance flavor depth by using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought for a richer, more complex taste profile.
• Prevent orzo from becoming too starchy by rinsing it briefly under cold water before adding to the soup, ensuring a better texture.
• Customize the soup’s protein by substituting chicken with rotisserie chicken, tofu, or white fish for different dietary preferences.
• Make the recipe gluten-free by replacing flour with cornstarch or using a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the soup’s thickness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg