Description
A bright and comforting Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo featuring tender chicken, fresh lemon zest and juice, and nourishing vegetables all simmered together in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal that is quick to make and packed with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Flavorings
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 large fresh lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot with the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Orzo: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.
- Zest It Up: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill or parsley to brighten the flavors of the soup.
- Final Touches: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve It Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra herbs if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth or stock.
- Orzo cooks quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking it to mush.
- Fresh herbs such as dill or parsley can be substituted depending on your preference.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
