Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Warm up your soul with this comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, featuring tender chicken, bright lemon, and wholesome orzo pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or as a light and refreshing meal, this soup combines zesty flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it's sure to become a household favorite.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-11-26T17:07:19.810Z

A Zesty Twist on Classic Comfort

Lemon chicken orzo soup takes the classic chicken soup concept to a refreshing new level. The vibrant flavors of lemon not only brighten the dish but also enhance the taste of the tender chicken and vegetables. This soup is a delicious remedy for cold days, but it also works wonderfully as a light, nutritious option year-round.

The addition of orzo pasta makes this soup hearty yet light, providing a wonderful texture that complements the juicy chicken and fresh herbs. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that is satisfying and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or solo meals that fuel your day.

Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This soup isn't just delicious; it's also packed with health benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The variety of vegetables, including carrots and celery, offer a range of vitamins and minerals, contributing to your daily nutritional intake.

Lemons, the star ingredient in this recipe, are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting your immune system and aiding digestion. Combined with the wholesome orzo pasta, this dish is not only comforting but also an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced diet.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Lemon chicken orzo soup is an excellent dish for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Prepare a large pot, and portion out servings into airtight containers for easy reheating. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when time is limited but you still want a homemade meal.

Additionally, the soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to leave out the orzo if you're freezing it, as pasta can become mushy when thawed. Instead, you can prepare the orzo fresh when you're ready to enjoy your soup!

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and let cool, then shred.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Stir in the shredded chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your lemon chicken orzo soup with a crusty baguette or a side salad for a complete meal experience. The combination of flavors will delight your palate and satisfy your hunger. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of richness that complements the soup's zesty flavor.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, an added pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and add a nice kick. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt can bring creaminess and a tangy flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the lemon essence.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this lemon chicken orzo soup by adding different vegetables such as spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrient richness and textures. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, making this a versatile recipe suitable for various diets.

Experimenting with herbs can also give your soup a new dimension. Fresh thyme or dill can enhance the flavor, while a splash of white wine will add depth to the broth. Don't hesitate to make this recipe your own and explore new flavor profiles!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

Yes, but it's best to freeze without the orzo. Add cooked orzo when reheating.