Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A warm, comforting bowl of tender shredded chicken, soft orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a bright, zesty lemon broth. Creamy, cozy, and bursting with flavor — perfect for chilly evenings! 🥣❤️
35 minutes 6 servings
🛒 Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
¾ cup uncooked orzo pasta
½ cup heavy cream (optional)
1 large lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups fresh baby spinach (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the orzo: Stir in uncooked orzo pasta and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
5. Add the chicken: Stir in shredded cooked chicken and simmer for 3–4 minutes until heated through.
6. Make it creamy: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, if using.
7. Add lemon: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
8. Add greens: Stir in baby spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
9. Finish and serve: Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and Parmesan cheese.
❤️ Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Extra lemony: Add another tablespoon of lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
Thicker and creamier: Use heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half.
Lighter version: Skip the cream for a fresh, brothy soup.
Perfect leftovers: Cook the orzo separately and add it to each bowl so it doesn’t soak up all the broth.
More flavor: Use homemade chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice.