Is this Lemon Chicken Orzo soup a warm hug? I swear, this recipe has saved me on more chilly evenings than I can count. What’s a Chicken Noodle soup with lemon? What is the taste of orzo pasta? Think of it as the elegant, slightly more sophisticated cousin of your classic chicken noodle – just a tad more refined. What are some of the best sunshine flavours? My grandma used to make something similar, though hers was always a little more…rustic. This one’s streamlined and foolproof!

What is Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

What exactly is the answer to this questionisWhat is lemon chicken orzo soup? We’re talking tender Shredded Chicken, perfectly cooked orzo pasta (that little rice-shaped pasta). What are some of the best broths that are infused with lemon? Is it just a little bit of cream or whipped cream? Greek yogurt stirred in at the end. Is it lemony? What are some of the best cozy sweaters for when you’re feeling under the weather, or just craving something cozy but not too cozy?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why do I love Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? What I love most is how the bright lemon perfectly balances the richness of the chicken broth. Is it like sunshine in a spoon?

Flavor:The flavor profile is just amazing. The lemon zest and juice bring a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken and vegetables. What are some of the best orzo recipes? Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs – dill, parsley, thyme, all work beautifully. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my food for good measure.

Simplicity:What are some great recipes for soup? Is it ready in less than an hour? Is it possible to cook a rotisserie chicken? What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights?

Cost-What are some of the best ingredients to cook on a budget? What are some ways to use chicken thighs in soup? Orzo is affordable and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank?

Versatility:What are some of the best soups to make? What are some good ways to use spinach, carrots, celery, peas or whatever you have on hand? How much lemon can I use? Can you double or triple this recipe to feed a larger group or have leftovers for lunch? I tested this with coconut milk (I was out of cream!) and it actually made it creamier!

If you love comforting soup, you absolutely have to try this one. Is Creamy Tomato Soup the same as my other soups? Is it a family favorite in my home?

How do I make lemon chicken orzo soup?

Quick Overview

How do I make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? How do you start sautéing aromatics, like onions and garlic? What is the recipe for chicken broth, orzo pasta, and Shredded Chicken? Let it simmer until the orzo is cooked through, then stir in lemon juice, zest, and a touch of cream. (or Greek yogurt) for richness. What’s the best part about it all? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup super easy. What makes this method special is the layering of flavors – each step builds upon the previous one. How do you make a truly unforgettable soup?

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (I prefer low-sodium so I can control the salt)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Fresh dill, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Parmesan cheese, grated

How do I follow step

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn! Burnt garlic ruins everything!

Step 2: Add Broth and Orzo

What is the best way to cook orzo pasta? Stir well to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Make sure you’re using good quality chicken broth – it really makes a difference in the overall flavor of your meal. I often use homemade if I have any on hand.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Orzo

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Is it cooked through and tender? How do you stir an orzo to prevent sticking. I always set a timer to avoid overcooking it!

Step 4: Add Chicken and Lemon

Stir in shredded chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Heat through for a minute or two. At this point, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. How much lemon you use depends on your preference, so start with a little and add more to your taste.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parsley

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt). If you boil the cream, it will curdle. Be sure to remove from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley. The cream adds a lovely richness and creaminess to the soup. If you’re using Greek yogurt, make sure it’s plain and full-fat for the best results.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup hot, garnished with fresh dill, lemon wedges, and grated Parmesan cheese. Can you use cheese if you like What are some good ways to add a little red pepper flakes to your recipe? I love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. What’s better on a cold day?

5. What to Serve It With

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a star on its own, but it shines even brighter with the right amount of flavor. What are What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: a salad.

For a light lunch:Pair it with a simple green salad with an easy vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will complement the warmth of soup perfectly.

What is a hearty meal?Serve it with crusty bread for dipping. Sourdough or baguette work wonderfully. What is a good grilled cheese sandwich? My kids love dipping their grilled cheese into the soup. Is there a recipe for this?

For a Cozy Night In:Add a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli. What are some of the best roasted veggies to eat?

For a Potluck or Gathering: Bring a big pot of this soup and serve it with a variety of toppings, like fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and Parmesan cheese. Your friends and family will love it!

My family and I often enjoy this soup with a side of garlic bread. It’s the perfect combination of comforting and flavorful. It also pairs nicely with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Trust me, the lemon in the soup really brings out the flavors of the wine!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Okay, so you’re ready to make this amazing soup. Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to ensure your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is absolutely perfect:

Chicken Prep: If you’re using raw chicken, poach it in the chicken broth before adding the orzo. This will infuse the broth with even more chicken flavor. Make sure to shred the chicken before adding it back to the pot. Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver, though!

Orzo Advice: Don’t overcook the orzo! Mushy orzo is not good. Cook it until it’s al dente, just like you would pasta. I always set a timer to make sure I don’t overcook it. The orzo will continue to cook a little bit in the hot broth after you remove the pot from the heat.

Lemon Customization: Adjust the amount of lemon to your liking. Start with 1/4 cup of lemon juice and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away! The lemon zest is also important, as it adds a lot of flavor.

Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use Greek yogurt, half-and-half, or even coconut milk. Just make sure to stir it in at the very end, off the heat, to prevent curdling. You can also add other vegetables, like carrots, celery, or spinach.

Baking Tips: This isn’t really baked, silly. But my grandma used to add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers. Don’t forget to remove it before serving! I’ve also experimented with adding a Parmesan rind to the broth for extra umami flavor. That one I learned from a fancy Italian chef on TV!

Glaze Variations: I don’t glaze my soup, but a drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a nice finishing touch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, is also a great way to add some flavor and visual appeal. I’ve even seen some people add a dollop of pesto to their soup. I might try that one day!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave this soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is properly sealed to prevent the soup from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: This soup freezes really well! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since there’s no glaze, don’t worry! Reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the cream to curdle. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free orzo pasta. There are many brands of gluten-free orzo available, so just choose your favorite. Make sure to check the label to ensure it’s certified gluten-free. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta while it’s simmering.

Do I need to peel the lemon?

No, you don’t need to peel the lemon! Just make sure to wash it thoroughly before zesting and juicing it. The lemon zest adds a lot of flavor to the soup, so don’t skip it! I always use a microplane to zest my lemons, as it creates very fine zest that distributes evenly throughout the soup.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely make this soup in a slow cooker! Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, except for the cream and parsley. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and parsley before serving. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook dinner.

How can I make this vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. I’ve also used sautéed mushrooms in place of the chicken and it tasted amazing!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use Greek yogurt, half-and-half, or even coconut milk. Just make sure to stir it in at the very end, off the heat, to prevent curdling. You can also use a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken the soup. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold milk and stir it into the soup.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my absolute favorite Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe! It’s the perfect combination of comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. What makes it so special is the bright lemon flavor that really elevates the soup and makes it feel light and fresh. If you’re looking for other cozy soup recipes, be sure to check out my French Onion Soup. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it. Happy cooking!