Print

Bright and Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Close-up of a white bowl filled with golden chicken orzo soup, featuring shredded chicken, bright orange carrots, and parsley garnish.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for a bright, zesty flavor your whole family will enjoy. This comforting soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and tastes like it simmered for hours.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Stir in the orzo pasta, oregano, and thyme. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
  5. Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken. Heat through for 2 minutes.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper to your taste.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley. This bright and zesty soup is ready to serve immediately.

Notes

  • For an even richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a creamy chicken orzo soup texture, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the lemon juice.
  • This recipe makes fantastic leftovers for easy meal prep.
  • If you are using raw chicken, cook it in the broth first, shred it, and then proceed with the recipe.

Nutrition