Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (cooked and shredded); 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 carrot (diced); 2 celery stalks (diced); Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (chopped)

If you’re searching for a comforting and refreshing soup, look no further than lemon chicken orzo soup. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and hearty orzo pasta, creating a warm bowl that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a pick-me-up. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 320 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 8g fat, and 2g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Once orzo is tender, stir in shredded chicken.
Add lemon juice and zest; mix well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon slices if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.

Serving and Pairings

Lemon chicken orzo soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a light appetizer like bruschetta. It also complements a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the orzo may become softer upon reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the orzo can make it mushy, so check it regularly.
Not seasoning enough can lead to bland soup.
Using too much lemon can overpower the other flavors.
Forgetting to sauté vegetables can result in less flavor.
Not letting the soup sit for a few minutes can miss out on flavor melding.

Helpful Tips

Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference.
Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it cooks through completely. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, but you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or quinoa.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just keep the orzo separate if you plan to freeze it.

What can I add to make it heartier?

Consider adding more vegetables like peas or corn, or using a thicker pasta instead of orzo.

Can I use leftovers for this recipe?

Yes, leftover chicken and vegetables work great in this soup, making it a perfect way to use up food.

Conclusion

Lemon chicken orzo soup is a delightful dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. With its bright flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s an ideal meal for any day. Enjoy this comforting soup with your loved ones and savor every bite!