Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup combines tender chicken, rich broth, and hearty orzo pasta into a delicious meal perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breast, diced Boneless, skinless recommended
- 1 cup Orzo pasta Cloudy or normal; adjust cook time
- 4 cups Chicken broth Low sodium for better control
- 1 cup Carrots, diced Fresh or frozen works
- 1 cup Celery, diced Can substitute with bell peppers
- 1 Onion, chopped Yellow or white onion preferred
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust based on preference
- 1 Lemon, juiced Fresh for best flavor
- Salt and pepper To taste, freshly ground recommended
- Fresh parsley For garnish, chopped before serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the chicken beforehand. Use homemade chicken broth if available, as it enhances the soup's richness. Chill any leftovers in a shallow container to preserve texture and taste. For added creaminess, a splash of heavy cream can be stirred in just before serving. Experiment with spices like thyme or dill to elevate the flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute orzo with quinoa or rice.