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This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup came from wanting something cozy but bright. The way that zesty broth hugs tender chicken and little orzo pasta creates pure comfort in a bowl. Quick enough for busy days special enough for Sunday dinner it's become our family's go to comfort soup.
Simple But Special
What makes this soup perfect is how it balances cozy with fresh. That lemony broth wakes up traditional chicken soup while orzo makes it satisfying without feeling heavy. Easy ingredients quick prep but tastes like you spent hours.
What You'll Need
- Fresh Veggies:
- Celery carrots onion nice and crisp.
- Butter and Oil:
- Makes everything rich and good.
- Fresh Garlic:
- Minced fine adds so much flavor.
- Touch of Flour:
- Just enough to give body.
- Good Broth:
- Low sodium lets you control the salt.
- Italian Herbs:
- Dried blend works perfect here.
- Chicken Breasts:
- They cook right in the broth.
- Orzo:
- Those tiny pasta shapes cook quick.
- Fresh Lemon:
- Nothing beats fresh squeezed.
- Parsley:
- Brightens everything up.
Let's Make Soup
- Start With Veggies: Butter oil veggies in the pot cook till soft add garlic at the end.
- Build Your Base: Sprinkle flour add broth chicken herbs let it simmer.
- Add The Orzo: Drop in pasta stir now and then till tender.
- Finish With Love: Shred that chicken add fresh lemon juice parsley taste and adjust.
Make It Perfect
Fresh squeezed lemon makes all the difference add more if you like. Want extra zip? Try some lemon zest too. Watch that orzo don't let it get too soft. Chicken thighs work great add extra veggies if you like.
Keep It Fresh
Keeps nice 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Orzo drinks up broth so add more when reheating. Freezing? Skip the pasta add fresh when serving. Warm it slow and gentle keeps everything perfect.
Mix It Up
Try chicken thighs instead of breasts makes it richer. Rotisserie chicken works great saves time too. Any tiny pasta works here not just orzo. Going veggie? Chickpeas and veggie broth do the trick. Little red pepper flakes or parmesan on top makes it special.
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Perfect Partners
Some crusty bread alongside catches all that good broth. Light salad with peppery arugula keeps things fresh. Having friends over? Put out different breads spreads maybe some garlic knots. Sparkling water with lemon or nice white wine makes it fancy.
Why We Love It
This soup hits all the right notes rich but bright satisfying but not heavy. Every spoonful gives you tender chicken good veggies perfect pasta. Makes restaurant quality soup right at home in under an hour can't beat that.
Save Some For Later
Pack it up keeps 3 to 4 days no problem. Freezing? Leave out the pasta add fresh when serving. Warm everything gentle in a pot stirring now and then keeps that chicken tender pasta just right.
Kitchen Secrets
Stir that orzo while it cooks keeps it from clumping. Fresh squeezed lemon only way to go maybe some zest too. Chicken dry? Quick dip in hot broth brings it back. Watch your salt low sodium broth lets you control it better. Fresh herbs on top makes it pretty.
Pure Comfort
This soup makes you feel good inside and out. Fresh ingredients bright lemon keeps it light but still cozy. Works all year round goes with everything. Easy enough for Monday fancy enough for company perfect any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, substitute chicken breasts with thighs for equally good results.
- → How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Cook uncovered and stir frequently while orzo cooks. Watch bottom of pot carefully.
- → How do I store leftovers?
May need extra broth when reheating as orzo continues absorbing liquid.
- → How much lemon should I use?
Start with suggested amount and add more to taste. Lemon flavor preference varies widely.
- → How do I know when chicken is done?
Use meat thermometer to check for 165F internal temperature for food safety.
Conclusion
Quick, healthy soup featuring chicken, orzo pasta, and vegetables in lemon-flavored broth. Ready in under an hour.