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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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A cozy and refreshing soup made with chicken, orzo, vegetables, and fresh lemon juice. Comforting yet light, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something wholesome and vibrant.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 uncooked chicken breasts
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • Juice of 2 lemons (plus zest, optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté celery, carrots, and onion until softened.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, stirring until flour dissolves. Add Italian seasoning and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in orzo and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often. Once chicken is cooked through (165°F), remove, chop, and return to the pot.
  5. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for richer flavor.
  • Rotisserie chicken works well—add it when the orzo goes in.
  • For extra brightness, add lemon zest along with the juice.
  • Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for more greens.
  • When reheating, add extra broth since the orzo absorbs liquid.

Nutrition