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Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe

Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe

Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Easy Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo — a quick and flavorful recipe featuring tender chicken, zesty lemon, and delicate orzo pasta. Perfect for any day, this bright and nourishing soup combines fresh citrus notes with savory richness for a satisfying and simple meal that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

Pasta

  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta

Broth & Liquids

  • 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
  • Juice and zest of 1 medium fresh lemon

Aromatics & Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Fat & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, creating the foundation of flavor for your soup.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the chicken pieces and reduce to a simmer. Let cook for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the broth is infused with savory goodness.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add the orzo pasta and cook until tender but slightly firm, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  4. Add Lemon and Seasonings: Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The lemon brightens and balances the rich flavors of the soup.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in chopped parsley or dill for a fresh herbal lift. Your soup is now ready to serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth if possible for richer flavor.
  • Watch the orzo closely to avoid overcooking and mushy texture.
  • Add lemon juice gradually to achieve perfect tanginess.
  • Shred the chicken evenly for a balanced texture in every spoonful.
  • Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to maintain crisp flavors and textures.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soups & Stews
  • Method: Stovetop Simmering
  • Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free orzo or rice/quinoa used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: lemon chicken soup, orzo soup, easy chicken soup, comforting soup, quick soup recipe, lemon chicken broth, healthy soup