Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: A Refreshing Twist for Cozy Nights
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and hearty orzo for a delightful meal.
- Author: Souzan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the orzo, and return the chicken to the pot. Simmer until the orzo is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream before serving.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated for quick meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Lemon Orzo, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup