There’s something magical about the first spoonful of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. I remember standing in my kitchen, watching steam curl from the pot as that citrusy aroma filled the air. It took me back to my Nonna’s Sicilian kitchen; the place where I first learned that soup wasn’t just food; it was care simmered slowly. This soup brings that same feeling: a mix of comfort, brightness, and healing in every spoonful.
If you love cozy soups like my Italian Penicillin Soup, this recipe will win your heart. It’s light yet deeply flavorful, a simple, soul-soothing dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little comfort in a bowl.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
What makes this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup stand out is its fresh yet hearty balance. The lemon adds a bright lift to tender shredded chicken and delicate orzo pasta, while herbs and a touch of garlic create an aroma that feels like home. It’s a versatile dish that fits any mood, nourishing when you’re under the weather, elegant enough for guests, and easy enough for a weeknight meal.
You can also tweak it to match your taste, much like my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, another family favorite that proves comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s a household staple.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A bright and cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup packed with tender chicken, lemon zest, and orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner any night of the week.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3/4 cup orzo pasta
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in shredded chicken.
4. Add orzo and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Reduce heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, and herbs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh dill.
Notes
• To make ahead, store soup and orzo separately to keep pasta from becoming too soft.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
• You can swap orzo for rice or ditalini pasta for texture variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is its simplicity. Every ingredient works together to create layers of flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Carrots, sliced | 2 |
| Celery stalks, sliced | 2 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
| Orzo pasta | 3/4 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Fresh dill or parsley | 2 tbsp |
For another bright and hearty meal, try pairing this with Smothered Chicken and Rice, it’s a cozy dinner duo.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Making this soup is as soothing as eating it.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in shredded chicken.
- Add orzo and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat, stir in lemon juice, zest, and herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper.
That’s it, a bowl of warmth ready in 30 minutes.
If you love creamy soups, you’ll also adore my Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup for a richer take on comfort.
Tips and Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes for extra greens.
- Try rice or ditalini pasta instead of orzo if you want a change in texture.
- To make it creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
For freezer-friendly options, you might also enjoy my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup ahead of time?
Yes. Store it without the orzo to prevent sogginess. Add cooked orzo when reheating for the freshest taste.
What can I use instead of orzo in Lemon Chicken Soup?
Rice, couscous, or small pasta like ditalini work well. Each gives a slightly different texture while keeping the soup hearty.
How do I thicken Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup naturally?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mash some of the vegetables for a creamier consistency.
Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for later?
Yes, but again, freeze it without the orzo. Add fresh pasta when you reheat for the best result.
Final thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup captures everything I love about home cooking; warmth, freshness, and a touch of nostalgia. It’s a bowl that soothes the soul and brings people together, just like Nonna’s did. Whether you’re cooking for family, healing from a long week, or simply craving something light yet comforting, this soup promises joy in every bite.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
