Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A heartwarming Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty lemon, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth Rich and savory base.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy.
- 1 cup orzo pasta Cooks quickly and absorbs broth.
- 2 lemons For juice and zest.
- 2 carrots Adds color and nutrition.
- 2 celery stalks Enhances flavor.
- 1 onion Finely chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced for flavor.
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds earthiness.
- salt and pepper To taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Cook for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Stir in the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add the juice and zest of the lemons. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serving
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Notes
Prep ingredients ahead of time, use fresh ingredients, and don't skip the lemon zest for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and you can freeze the soup as well.