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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy lemon chicken orzo soup with tender chicken and fresh herbs.

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A bright and comforting one-pot soup featuring tender chicken, plump orzo pasta, and a savory broth lifted with fresh lemon and herbs. Perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (about 1/4 cup juice)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and dried thyme. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Carefully add the whole chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and poach for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate to cool.
  5. Add the uncooked orzo to the simmering broth. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
  6. Shred the cooled chicken using two forks.
  7. Once orzo is cooked, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Remove the pot from the heat.
  8. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve.

Notes

For best results, add lemon juice off the heat to prevent bitterness. The orzo will continue to absorb broth; add a splash of water or broth when reheating leftovers. For a gluten-free version, substitute with rice or gluten-free pasta.

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