Description
This bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect combination of tender chicken, hearty orzo pasta, and a refreshing burst of lemon. With a light yet satisfying broth, itβs a comforting dish thatβs perfect for any season, offering a balance of tangy and savory flavors in every spoonful.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sautΓ© for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken, orzo, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and spinach (if using), and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute orzo with another small pasta like ditalini or small shells.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes