Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: A Refreshing and Comforting Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a bright, flavorful, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its zesty lemon, tender chicken, and tiny orzo pasta, this soup is both comforting and refreshing. Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon slices

Step-by-Step Instructions