Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A comforting soup combining tender chicken, zesty lemon, and wholesome orzo that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 fresh lemon, juiced and sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried thyme or oregano (optional)
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop the chicken, onion, and garlic. Squeeze the lemon and set it aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add chopped onions. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chicken: Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth: Scrape up any bits stuck to the pot, bring to a gentle simmer.
- Introduce the orzo: Stir in orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Add the spinach and lemon juice: Stir gently until the spinach wilts.
- Finishing touches: Taste and adjust seasoning, ladle into bowls, and garnish as desired.
Notes
For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving. You can also sneak in other veggies like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, comforting soup, easy dinner recipe, hearty soup