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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for Cozy Days

Enjoy this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, a comforting dish perfect for cozy days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 1 pound Chicken (chicken thighs or breasts) Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe if desired.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 2 medium Carrots Diced evenly for consistent cooking.
  • 2 stalks Celery Diced evenly for consistent cooking.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Adjust amount for desired garlic taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use a high-quality oil for better flavor.
For the Thickening Roux
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour For gluten-free options, use cornstarch instead.
For the Broth
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 cups Water Use less for a thicker soup.
For the Bright Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Fresh lemons are best—don’t skip the zest for extra flair.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest For brightening flavor.
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Can be substituted with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill Use directly for the best taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Use directly for the best taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside to rest.
  2. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant. Incorporate seasonings.
  3. Add butter to melt into the vegetables. Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and water, stirring to mix well. Bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
  6. Remove chicken and shred it. Return chicken to the pot with orzo, lemon juice, and zest. Stir to combine.
  7. Simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Ensure orzo is tender.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and herbs. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Add extra lemon juice before serving for brightness.

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