Bright and Flavorful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup You’ll Love

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a bright and nourishing dish, perfect for cozying up on any day. Combining tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon broth, it delivers comforting flavors with a fresh twist. It’s light, easy to prepare, and packed with protein and vegetables, making it ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Refreshing: The lemon adds a fresh, tangy flavor that lifts the whole soup.
Protein-Packed: Tender chicken provides satisfying nutrition.
Comfort Food Made Healthy: A warming, light soup full of veggies and wholesome orzo pasta.
Simple and Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Add Broth and Simmer

• Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Add orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.

Incorporate Chicken and Lemon

• Stir in the cooked chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
• Simmer for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.

Season and Garnish

• Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
• Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 220 | Carbs: 20g | Fat: 6g | Protein: 22g | Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick meal.
• Don’t Overcook Orzo: It cooks fast; be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness.
• Fresh Lemon is Key: Fresh juice and zest brighten the soup perfectly.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale for extra nutrition near the end of cooking.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced Nutrition: Lean protein, vegetables, and pasta create a well-rounded meal.
• Bright and Cozy: The lemon flavor adds freshness that complements the hearty ingredients.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize with your favorite herbs or extra vegetables.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup and quick prep make it perfect for any day.

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a nourishing and flavorful way to enjoy comfort food with a healthy twist. Its zesty lemon broth combined with tender chicken and orzo makes it a satisfying yet light meal for any occasion. Enjoy it fresh, or make it ahead for a delicious lunch or dinner option all week long.