Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon (juice and zest); Salt & pepper, to taste; Parsley, chopped (optional)

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If you’re craving a soup that feels like a warm hug on a cool day but also refreshes your palate, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe is the answer. Bright and zesty lemon perfectly complements tender shredded chicken and delicate orzo pasta, all nestled in a savory broth with vibrant veggies. Every spoonful delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s both comforting and uplifting. Whether you’re looking to nourish your body or simply enjoy a satisfying meal, this soup hits every note just right.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of several white bowls and a white cup arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients. There is one large bowl with shredded cooked chicken that is pale beige, a medium bowl with orange carrot slices, a small bowl of chopped white onions, a small bowl with minced garlic that is pale yellow, and a bowl of dry yellow pasta or lentils. Also present is a clear cup with light brown broth and another with light green liquid, two white eggs next to the bowls, and a bunch of fresh dark green spinach leaves at the bottom. Two wooden salt and pepper shakers stand in the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making a soup that bursts with flavor and feels lovingly homemade. Each ingredient plays its own unique role, from adding sweet crispness to the vegetables to giving the broth its unmistakable bright character.

Cooked chicken (2 cups shredded): Tender and ready to melt into the broth for rich protein and satisfying texture.
Chicken broth (6 cups): The savory base that carries all the flavors together beautifully.
Orzo pasta (1 cup): Small and delicate, it offers a lovely bite that mingles seamlessly with the soup.
Carrots (1 cup sliced): Sweet and crunchy, adding color and a natural hint of sweetness.
Celery (1 cup sliced): Provides a subtle aromatic crunch that balances the soup.
Onion (1 diced): The essential flavor builder, caramelizing lightly for depth.
Garlic cloves (2): Infuses warmth and a gentle kick that complements the lemon.
Lemon (juice and zest of 1): The star ingredient that brightens and lifts the entire dish.
Salt & pepper: To season perfectly and bring out the natural flavors.
Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh herbaceous note and lovely green color if you like.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Base Vegetables

Start by heating a little oil in a large pot and gently sauté the diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook them until they’re tender and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation of your soup, giving it a natural sweetness and aromatic depth.

Step 2: Simmer with Broth and Orzo

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and reduce the heat to let it simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed some of the broth’s essence. The orzo will thicken the soup slightly while providing a lovely, tender texture.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Lemon

Stir in the shredded chicken along with the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. This is where the soup truly comes alive. The lemon adds a zesty brightness that perfectly contrasts the creamy warmth of the chicken and orzo.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Finish with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you want, sprinkle in some fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal freshness. Give it a final stir, then let everything heat through for another couple of minutes before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with a thick soup that has a yellow base with visible pieces of shredded chicken, small orange carrot cubes, and green leafy bits floating throughout. The soup looks rich and chunky with a slightly creamy texture. Behind the bowl, pieces of fried food with a crisp golden brown crust rest on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand holding a piece is seen at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this soup even more, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A few lemon wedges on the side let guests adjust the tanginess to their liking. For an unexpected twist, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add a subtle savory richness.

Side Dishes

This soup is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or warm pita makes it even more comforting. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette ties beautifully into the citrus notes, creating a harmonious, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe in individual stoneware bowls for a rustic touch, or double the batch in a charming soup tureen for a cozy family-style meal. You can even garnish each bowl with edible flowers or microgreens for a festive, elegant look that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh lemon notes and prevent the orzo from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully and is perfect for meal prep. Freeze in portion-sized containers, leaving some room at the top since the orzo can expand a bit. When thawed, the flavors meld even more, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, small shells, or even tiny macaroni work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this soup suitable for dairy-free diets?

Yes! This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as you skip any cheese garnishes. It’s a perfect light, dairy-free comfort food.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I keep the lemon flavor bright when reheating leftovers?

To keep the lemon zing fresh, add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving after reheating. This lifts the flavors instantly.

What are some good substitutions for celery if I don’t have any?

Fennel or green bell pepper can add a nice crunch and flavor if you don’t have celery on hand. Just chop finely and sauté as usual.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of soup that feels both comforting and refreshing, and this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough to share with friends and family. Give it a try and you might just find your new favorite go-to soup for any season!

Chef MARTHA

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need