Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup is a comforting and refreshing dish packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, delicate orzo pasta, and a bright burst of lemon. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a pick-me-up, this soup delivers warmth with a light, zesty twist that makes it feel both hearty and refreshing at the same time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighsonioncarrotscelerygarlicchicken broth or stockorzo pastafresh lemonsbaby spinacholive oilfresh dill (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add chicken breasts or thighs and pour in the chicken broth.

Bring to a simmer and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Add the orzo pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted.

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a faster version.

Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.

Add a beaten egg slowly while stirring for a Greek avgolemono-style finish.

Include a dash of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but brown rice will need a longer cooking time.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely—use vegetable broth and substitute chickpeas or tofu for the chicken.

How do I prevent the orzo from absorbing too much broth?

Cook the orzo separately and add it when serving if you prefer.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze before adding the orzo and spinach for optimal texture.

Conclusion

Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup brings together cozy comfort and bright flavors in a single bowl. Whether you’re seeking a soothing meal for recovery or a lively soup to lift your spirits, this easy-to-make dish is bound to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.