Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a light yet hearty meal made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta in a bright lemony broth. Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a comforting homemade soup with fresh flavor!
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Broth and Seasoning
- 8 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta uncooked
Finishing Touch
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 2 cups baby spinach fresh
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add salt, pepper, and thyme. Add the chicken breasts and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the soup.
- Add the orzo pasta and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and baby spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon zest if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a mix of chicken broth and homemade stock. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a creamy finish.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 385 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 820mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 32g
Vitamin A: 110% DV
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 820mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 32g
Vitamin A: 110% DV
Vitamin C: 20% DV