Description
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the unique flavor of lemon.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces orzo pasta: This small pasta adds a delightful chewiness to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, it adds a subtle richness.
- 3 medium carrots, chopped: Carrots bring sweetness and color to the dish.
- 3 ribs celery, chopped: Celery adds crunch and a fresh flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Onions provide a savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds a warm, earthy note.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano contributes a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the soup to your liking.
- 1 bay leaf: This leaf infuses the broth with a subtle depth of flavor.
- 3 (32 ounce) cartons fat-free low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the soup light.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the soup and adds a zesty kick.
- 1 lemon, zested: The zest enhances the lemon flavor without adding acidity.
- 8 ounces cooked chicken breast, chopped: Chicken provides protein and heartiness.
- 1 (8 ounce) package baby spinach leaves: Spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients.
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish (optional): Lemon slices make for a beautiful presentation.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Cheese adds a creamy finish to the soup.
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté chopped carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil until softened.
- Add minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf; bring to a boil and then simmer.
- Stir in chopped chicken, lemon juice, and lemon zest; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add spinach and cooked orzo; cook until spinach is wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, removing the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with lemon slices and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Cook the orzo separately to maintain its texture.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste.
- Experiment with different herbs for variety.
- This soup can be made ahead of time; flavors improve after sitting.
- Customize the protein with turkey or rotisserie chicken.
- Add more vegetables for added nutrition.
- Garnish creatively with herbs or olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, Comfort Food, Healthy Soup, Chicken Soup