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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

5 from 1 vote
This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a cozy, tangy, and hearty bowl of goodness packed with shredded chicken, tender orzo pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a rich lemony broth. It's perfect for a light dinner or a comforting lunch any time of year.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American, Italian and Mediterranean flavors
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
  • ¾ cup dry orzo pasta
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Juice of 1 lemon about 2 tbsp
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
  • Parmesan cheese for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Medium or large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and thyme. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Stir in the orzo and let cook for 8–10 minutes, or until orzo is tender.
  5. Add shredded chicken and stir to heat through.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Make it dairy-free by replacing heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
  • Want extra greens? Add baby spinach in the final 2 minutes of cooking.
  • For a richer flavor, use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
 
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup