Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Introduction
Lemon chicken orzo soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon with tender chicken, hearty orzo pasta, and a medley of vegetables. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s not only nourishing but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast: 1 pound, diced
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Carrots: 2 medium, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Chicken broth: 6 cups
Water: 1 cup
Orzo pasta: 1 cup
Lemon juice: 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed
Zest of 1 lemon
Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for approximately 5 minutes, until they become soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute for flavor.
Build the Soup Base
Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add orzo pasta. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Add Lemon and Seasonings
Once the orzo is cooked, add fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Shred the Chicken
While the soup simmers, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken back into the soup and mix everything together. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your lemon chicken orzo soup!
Notes
Storage
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
When reheating, you may want to add a little extra broth or water to loosen the soup since the orzo absorbs liquid as it sits.
Substitutions
Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or rice.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that involves cooking food over relatively high heat with a small amount of fat. This method is used to cook the vegetables and develop their flavors before adding the broth.
Simmering
Simmering is the process of cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. In this recipe, it is used to allow the orzo and chicken to cook thoroughly in the flavorful broth.
Shredding
Shredding involves tearing or cutting the cooked chicken into smaller pieces. This technique helps to incorporate the chicken evenly throughout the soup.
Flavor Building
Flavor building is an essential cooking technique where you layer flavors by cooking ingredients in stages. This recipe emphasizes the importance of adding garlic, herbs, and lemon to boost the overall taste of the soup.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary.
Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time; however, it’s best to add the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Can I freeze lemon chicken orzo soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s advised to freeze it without the pasta. Cooked pasta may become mushy upon reheating.
What other proteins can I use in this recipe?
You can use other cooked proteins like rotisserie chicken or turkey, and even shredded vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To make the soup healthier, you can add more vegetables such as spinach or kale and use low-sodium broth.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and comforting ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of year, offering a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of lemon, chicken, and orzo makes it both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Rice Soup
A classic alternative, this soup offers a hearty mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables that warms the soul.
Vegetable Orzo Soup
For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with an array of seasonal veggies and keep the orzo for a filling, healthy option.
Italian Wedding Soup
This soup adds mini meatballs and leafy greens to create a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup
Substituting orzo with quinoa provides a gluten-free option while still capturing that refreshing lemony flavor.
Chicken Noodle Soup with a Twist
Add a splash of lemon juice and some fresh herbs to your traditional chicken noodle soup for an exciting new take.
Spinach and Lemon Tortellini Soup
Incorporate tortellini and spinach for a deliciously cheesy,green, and citrus-infused soup that delights the palate.
