Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup is a bright, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a refreshing burst of lemon in a light yet hearty broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a bowl of nourishing comfort, this soup is both satisfying and uplifting, with fresh herbs and vegetables adding flavor and depth.

ingredients

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

chicken breast or thighsoniongarliccarrotscelerychicken brothyellow orzo pastaolive oillemon juicelemon zestfresh dill or parsleybay leafssalt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the chicken breasts or thighs, chicken broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Add orzo pasta and simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a beaten egg yolk mixture (avgolemono-style) for a creamy, Greek-inspired texture.

Substitute rice for orzo if desired.

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

Add spinach or kale for extra greens.

Include a dash of crushed red pepper for heat.

storage/reheating

Store soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Orzo will absorb liquid over time—add extra broth or water when reheating.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it after the orzo is cooked to warm through.

What is the best type of lemon to use?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice from regular or Meyer lemons works best.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is not gluten-free, but gluten-free varieties are available.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best to freeze without the orzo, as pasta can become mushy. Add cooked orzo when reheating.

How do I keep the orzo from getting too soft?

Slightly undercook the orzo if you plan to store the soup, or cook it separately and add it before serving.

Conclusion

Lemony Chicken and Orzo Soup is a wholesome and vibrant dish that brings together comforting ingredients with a zesty twist. Whether you’re recovering from a cold or simply craving something cozy yet light, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavor and nourishment. It’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.