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Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a bright and comforting soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, orzo pasta, and a fresh burst of lemon. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded
  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chicken broth, bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  4. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
  5. Stir in shredded chicken and spinach, simmering for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  6. Add lemon juice and zest, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  7. Remove bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.Make it creamy with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.Swap orzo for rice or couscous for a different texture.Add peas, zucchini, or red pepper flakes for variety.Cook orzo separately if planning to store leftovers to prevent mushiness.

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