Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups spinach leaves; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Brighten your mealtime with this comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and nourishing orzo, this zesty soup is a perfect blend of flavors that warms the soul. It's a quick and easy dish ideal for weeknight dinners or anytime you're craving a light yet hearty meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T04:20:25.315Z

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful blend of bright flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, it delivers comfort in every spoonful.

A Comforting, Nourishing Bowl

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug in a bowl. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and invigorating. This dish is especially great on chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather, as its warm, soothing nature helps restore your spirits.

Packed with nutrients, this soup offers a balanced meal in every spoonful. The spinach adds a pop of color and essential vitamins, while the orzo brings heartiness that transforms a simple broth into a fulfilling dish. It's a delightful way to ensure you're getting your veggies and protein while enjoying a comforting bowl of goodness.

Quick and Easy for Busy Nights

If you're looking for a fast yet nutritious dinner option, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup fits the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. The straightforward steps in this recipe make it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but hunger is still a priority.

This soup also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it for lunch or dinner later in the week. It maintains its flavors and textures, ensuring that every serving feels freshly made and just as delightful as the first.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is its versatility. The recipe serves as a solid foundation that you can customize to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some broccoli or zucchini. Prefer a different protein? Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Similarly, you can adjust the levels of lemon and seasoning to find your perfect balance. Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for extra aroma and flavor. This adaptability means you can create variations of the soup that keep it exciting and new every time you make it.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups spinach leaves
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix all the ingredients well and prepare for a delicious experience!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Orzo

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo and return the chicken to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender.

Finish with Spinach and Lemon

Stir in spinach and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

Storing and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, it's best to keep the orzo separate if you plan on making it ahead of time. As it sits, orzo can absorb too much broth, becoming mushy. Instead, store the soup base and cooked orzo in separate containers in the refrigerator, and combine them when reheating for optimal texture.

If you're reheating leftovers, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to bring back some of the initial consistency. This way, your soup will remain delicious and enjoyable even days after it's first made.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider pairing Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. A light arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette can complement the soup's flavors and provide a refreshing crunch.

For added richness, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup just before serving can enhance the dish immensely. The cheesy, savory notes meld beautifully with the zesty lemon and ingredients, turning a simple meal into something truly special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but cooking time may vary.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.