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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

This comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and delicate orzo pasta in a creamy, lemon-infused broth. Enhanced with fresh dill and a hint of zest, this nutritious and hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need a bright, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 cups carrots (diced)
  • 1 cup celery (diced)
  • 2 cups onion (diced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Protein and Pasta

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup dried orzo pasta

Liquids and Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken stock
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup light cream

Seasonings and Herbs

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 tsp oregano (dried)
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed
  • Zest from one lemon
  • 3 1/2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup fresh dill (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Cook Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion, and cook until the vegetables become tender, stirring occasionally for about 7-8 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
  3. Add Ingredients: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper, then pour in the chicken stock. Add the dried oregano, celery seed, and place the chicken breasts into the pot.
  4. Simmer and Shred Chicken: Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Set aside.
  5. Add Orzo: Add the dried orzo pasta to the simmering soup and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check to ensure the orzo is cooked through but still tender.
  6. Add Lemon and Milk: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, whole milk, cream, and chopped fresh dill. Warm the soup gently over low heat without boiling, then adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy this vibrant, creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute the whole milk and light cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • For added depth, garnish with extra fresh dill or a lemon wedge when serving.
  • Ensure the soup does not boil after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
  • Gluten-free orzo alternatives can be used if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken orzo soup, creamy chicken soup, lemon dill soup, comforting chicken soup, homemade chicken soup

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup-recipe/