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Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup

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  • Author: ChefEmma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A light and refreshing chicken and orzo soup brightened with lemon and fresh herbs, offering a comforting yet zesty twist on traditional chicken soup.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5-6 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Add orzo and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until tender.
  5. Stir in shredded chicken, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh dill or parsley before serving.
  7. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For added creaminess, whisk in an egg yolk mixed with lemon juice just before serving (avgolemono-style).
  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; add extra broth when reheating as orzo will absorb liquid.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg