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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy lemon chicken orzo soup recipe in a rustic white bowl
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This comforting soup transforms a single chicken breast and pantry staples into a generous, nourishing meal. It features a bright, lemony broth with tender shredded chicken, vegetables, and orzo pasta. It's a quick, easy weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 3/4 pound)
  • 3/4 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 lemon, for zest and juice
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften, 6 to 8 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil. Carefully add the whole chicken breast.
  4. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
  5. Remove chicken to a plate to cool slightly. Add uncooked orzo to the simmering broth. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente.
  6. Shred the cooled chicken using two forks.
  7. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Remove pot from heat.
  8. Zest the lemon directly into the soup, then squeeze in the juice. Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using).
  9. Stir in fresh parsley. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes

Add lemon juice off the heat to prevent bitterness. For leftovers, the orzo will absorb broth; add a splash of water or broth when reheating. For a gluten free version, use gluten free pasta or rice. For a dairy free version, omit Parmesan and cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup-2/