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Lemon chicken orzo soup with parsley and a lemon wedge in a ceramic bowl.

Recipe: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup


  • Author: Emma Skillet
  • Total Time: 40 Minutes
  • Yield: 6 Servings 1x

Description

Bright, cozy chicken soup with tender orzo, lemon, and herbs—silky broth, one pot, weeknight-easy.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Celery, carrots, onion finely diced (mirepoix)
  • Butter 1 tbsp and olive oil 1 tbsp
  • Garlic minced 34 cloves
  • All-purpose flour 2 tbsp
  • Low-sodium chicken broth 6 cups
  • Italian seasoning 1 tsp
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts 1½ lb
  • Orzo ¾ cup (dry)
  • Fresh lemon juice 2–3 tbsp (plus zest if desired)
  • Fresh parsley chopped 2 tbsp
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in butter and olive oil over medium heat until softened. Stir in garlic 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour and cook 30–60 seconds.
  2. Whisk in broth until smooth; add Italian seasoning and chicken. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook about 15 minutes.
  3. Add orzo; simmer, stirring often, until orzo is al dente. Remove chicken when it reaches 165°F/74°C; chop or shred and return to pot.
  4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Adjust thickness with hot broth or water. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Orzo continues to thicken the soup as it rests—loosen leftovers with hot broth and re-season with salt, pepper, and lemon.
  • GF option: use cornstarch instead of flour and a gluten-free small pasta or cooked rice.
  • Add baby spinach at the end for color and extra nutrients.
  • Prep Time: 10 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 Minute
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Cook
  • Cuisine: Comfort

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 340Kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g

Keywords: Chicken Orzo Soup