Description
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a cozy, citrusy chicken soup that balances brightness and comfort. With tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a zesty lemon finish, this healthy soup recipe is perfect for family dinners, chilly nights, or when you just need a bowl of sunshine.
Ingredients
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2 sticks (200 g) celery, chopped finely
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2 medium (200 g) carrots, peeled & chopped finely
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½ medium (75 g) onion, chopped
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1 Tbsp (14 g) butter
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1 Tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 Tbsp (16 g) all-purpose flour
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6 cups (1.4 liters) chicken broth
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¼ tsp (1 g) Italian seasoning
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1.5 lbs (680 g) uncooked chicken breasts
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1 cup (200 g) uncooked orzo pasta
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1 Tbsp (15 ml) fresh lemon juice, or to taste
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1 Tbsp (4 g) chopped fresh parsley, or to taste
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil, then sauté celery, carrots, and onion for 5–7 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour and stir for 1 minute.
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Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking. Add Italian seasoning and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for 15 minutes.
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Stir in orzo and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often.
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Remove chicken, chop into bite-sized pieces, and return to the pot.
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Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
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Serve hot with extra lemon if desired.
Notes
Cook orzo separately if you plan to store leftovers to prevent mushiness.
Adjust lemon juice to your taste preference.
Rotisserie chicken can be used for a quicker version.
Add spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup / Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop / One-Pot
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired