Zesty Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo: A Comforting Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo to wrap you in a warm, comforting embrace. Imagine the zing of fresh lemon dancing with tender chicken and comforting orzo, creating a symphony of flavors that can lift your spirits on even the gloomiest days. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it feel like a sunny afternoon in the Mediterranean, even if it’s raining cats and dogs outside.

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This soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I have fond memories of my grandmother making this for me when I was feeling under the weather. She claimed it had magical healing powers—it probably did! Perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a little pick-me-up, this Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo promises an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave you reaching for seconds.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1 pound of chicken breasts; they cook quickly and stay juicy in the soup.

• Fresh Lemons: You’ll need both zest and juice for that bright flavor punch; choose organic lemons if possible.

• Orzo Pasta: This cute little pasta cooks quickly and adds heartiness to your soup; look for whole-grain or gluten-free options as needed.

• Carrots: Two medium carrots add sweetness and color; chop them finely for quicker cooking.

• Celery Stalks: Use two stalks to enhance the soup’s flavor base; their crunch complements the softness of the chicken.

• Onion: One medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent to unlock its sweet flavor.

• Garlic Cloves: Three minced cloves infuse the soup with aromatic goodness—don’t skimp on this!

• Chicken Broth: Use about four cups of low-sodium chicken broth; homemade is best but store-bought works too!

• Fresh Parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brightens up the dish right before serving—trust me, it makes a difference!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo

Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop onions, dice celery and carrots, mince garlic, and zest those lemons like you mean it! Having everything prepped makes cooking smoother.

Heat a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Add onions first, sautéing until they become soft and transparent—this usually takes around five minutes—and let that heavenly aroma fill your kitchen.

Next up: toss in your garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt—nobody wants bitter garlic ruining their soup! Then add your carrots and celery, cooking them down until slightly tender.

Now it’s time to incorporate our star ingredient: add the chicken breasts into the pot along with your chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering the heat—let it simmer so all those flavors can mingle beautifully!

After about ten minutes of simmering bliss, fish out those chicken breasts (they’re ready!). Shred them using two forks—this is where you can imagine you’re on a cooking show—but don’t worry if you get a bit messy!

Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with orzo pasta. Let everything cook together for another ten minutes until the orzo is al dente. Keep stirring occasionally because nobody likes pasta that sticks!

Finally, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and zest plus some chopped parsley—this step elevates your soup from good to legendary! Taste test and adjust seasoning as needed; salt can be life-changing here!

Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side; just be warned—the warmth from this Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo might have you dreaming of summer picnics even in winter months!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While that’s happening, boil your orzo in a separate pot. As you wait, chop veggies and prepare the broth to keep everything flowing smoothly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap orzo for rice or quinoa if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients, or sprinkle in your favorite herbs like dill or thyme to really elevate those flavors.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo, let it cool before transferring it to airtight containers. For reheating, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive its deliciousness.

It was during a chilly winter evening when I first made this Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo for my family. The smell wafted through the house, and even my picky eater couldn’t resist asking for seconds!

FAQs:

What ingredients are used in Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo?

Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo features a delightful mix of fresh ingredients. You will need chicken breast, orzo pasta, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. The star ingredient is lemon, which adds a bright and refreshing flavor to the soup. For seasoning, use salt and pepper along with chicken broth to enhance the taste. This combination creates a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for any meal.

How long does it take to prepare Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo?

Preparing Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have this delicious soup ready in roughly 45 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a quick yet satisfying meal. The process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo ahead of time! The flavors meld beautifully when stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, if you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it right before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy as it absorbs the soup’s liquid while sitting in storage. Reheat gently on the stove and enjoy your delicious creation!

Is Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo healthy?

Absolutely! Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo is packed with nutrients from vegetables like carrots and celery. It also contains lean protein from chicken breast, making it a balanced option for any diet. The addition of lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants while keeping calories relatively low. This comforting soup not only warms your body but also nourishes your health—perfect for those chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Conclusion for Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo:

In summary, Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo is a wholesome dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty lemon flavors into one pot. It’s easy to prepare within 45 minutes and can be made ahead of time for convenience. The health benefits make it an excellent choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a nutritious option, this recipe delivers both satisfaction and flavor. Enjoy this delightful soup as part of your culinary repertoire!

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Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, bright lemon, and hearty orzo pasta. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing pick-me-up. With its vibrant flavors and aromatic ingredients, it’s a delightful addition to any meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep all ingredients: chop vegetables, mince garlic, and zest lemons.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in carrots and celery; cook until slightly tender.
4. Add chicken breasts and chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot along with orzo. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the orzo is al dente.
6. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in spinach or kale before serving. If desired, swap orzo for rice or quinoa. To prevent mushiness, store leftover soup without the orzo; add it fresh when reheating.