Welcome, dear food enthusiasts! Are you in search of an easy, healthy and nutritious dinner options? Take a look at the recipe for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. The recipe offers a delicious mix of spicy, tangy flavors which makes it the perfect recipe for family meals or for quick and easy meals during the week. Join us for the joy of this delicious soup that is loved by a lot of people because of its light and delicious flavor.
Introduction
Lemon chicken orzo soup a recipe that blends the fresh zest of lemon with the comforting warmth of orzo and chicken. This recipe is similar to the traditional Greek soup, but is designed to be simple and easy which makes it an excellent dish to serve at your table. If you’re a lover of chicken noodle soup, or are looking for a new approach orzo food, this recipe is sure to make your dinner more enjoyable by its distinctive flavor profile and simple cooking.
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll require some of the ingredients listed below:
- 2 sticks of celery finely chopped
- 2 large carrots that have been peeled and then chopped
- half medium-sized onion finely cut (Vidalia or yellow onions work best)
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of flour (for slightly thickening)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium optional)
- 1/4 TSP Italian seasoning
- 1.5 1 lbs chicken breasts without skin and bones
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (or more according to your preference)
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley Finely chopped
- Salt and pepper as desired
Substitutions: Chicken thighs could be substituted for chicken breasts for more taste. To make gluten-free alternatives, use cornstarch in place of flour and substituting rice for orzo.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Base
In a large soup pan or Dutch oven on medium-high. Add olive oil and butter. Sauté the chopped celery, carrots and onions for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and smell delicious.
Step2: Add Garlic and Flour
Mix in minced garlic to cook 30 secs. Sprinkle with flour and cook for an additional minute, mixing continuously to create the light roux.
Step3: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour into the chicken broth and stir until the flour is completely dissolving. Add Italian seasoning as well as uncooked chicken breasts. Bring the mix to a boil, and then reduce the heat until it is simmering.
Step4: Incorporate Orzo
In the 15th minute of cooking after 15 minutes of simmering, add the orzo. It should cook for about 10 minutes, or till the pasta is cooked to al at a good temperature. Stir often to avoid sticking.
Step5: Finish the Dish
Take the bird out of the pan and chop or shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken back to the pot, adding parsley, lemon juice and sprinkle by adding salt and black pepper. Serve hot and garnish with fresh lemon slices or parsley for an extra zing.
Helpful Tips for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- To get a stronger taste, let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes prior to serving.
- Make adjustments to the juice from the lemon according to your liking; some people may prefer a soup with more tang.
- To ensure that you don’t cook too much orzo make sure to stir it frequently and make sure to check the cooking doneness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Utilize fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and parsley can make a huge distinction in the taste.
- Check Chicken’s Temperature It is safe to eat chicken up to temperatures of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Make use of a meat thermometer to ensure precise.
- Keep it light or creamy: Include a bit of cream to make a more rich soup or to keep the broth light and light.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Serve this soup with:
- Warm, crusty bread, or garlic bread to serve for dip.
- A fresh green salad with a sweet vinaigrette.
- An ice-cold glass of wine like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the citrusy flavours.
Nutritional Information
Dietary Details (per portion)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fiber: 2g
This delicious and light soup is ideal for a healthy dinner.
Storage and Leftovers for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It is likely that the orzo absorbs broth therefore, add a splash chicken stock before heating.
- Freezing If you want the most effective results make sure to keep the chicken broth and broth separated in the same orzo. Combine after reheating.
- Reheating Tip: Heat in a saucepan on a low heat and stir frequently until heated to.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Can I use precooked chicken? Yes, add the cooked chicken or rotisserie during Step 4 to prevent overcooking.
- What is a replace orzo with? Rice or small pasta shapes such as ditalini are good choices.
- Do I have to make this in slow cooker? Absolutely! Make the slow cooker version using the same recipe however, cook it on low for about 6 hours.
- What can I do to create this to be gluten free? Replace flour with cornstarch and orzo using Rice or gluten-free pasta.
Related Recipes for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Lovers
For more ideas for a cozy dinner look into these recipes:
- Braised Beef with Blue Cheese Sauce – Easy Dinner Ideas
- Homemade Chicken Pot Pie – Easy Thanksgiving Recipe
- Sausage Cheese Dip – Best Easy Appetizer Idea
Conclusion
We hope you have fun making the Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup as well as we enjoyed making it for you! This recipe is great for warm evenings and adds a splash of color to any dining table with its zesty flavor. Check it out, and make sure to share your ideas or innovative ideas. Enjoy cooking!
Print
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: Best Quick Dinner Recipe
Description
Welcome, dear food enthusiasts! Are you looking for a comforting and wholesome dinner option? Look no further than this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. This recipe is a delightful fusion of tangy, savory flavors, making it a perfect dish for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Join us as we dive into the magic of making this heartwarming soup, loved by many for its light yet satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (Vidalia or yellow onion works best)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour (for slight thickening)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium optional)
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Base
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil. Sauté the chopped celery, carrots, and onions for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step2: Add Garlic and Flour
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to form a light roux.
Step3: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring until the flour dissolves completely. Add Italian seasoning and uncooked chicken breasts. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Step4: Incorporate Orzo
After 15 minutes of simmering, add the orzo. Cook for 10 minutes or until the orzo is al dente. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step5: Finish the Dish
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and add lemon juice, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon slices for extra zest.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- For a more robust flavor, let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
- Adjust the lemon juice to taste; some may prefer a tangier soup.
- To avoid overcooking orzo, stir frequently and check for doneness.