Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 12 reviews

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a comforting, hearty meal featuring tender chicken, tender orzo pasta, and a bright lemony cream broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines sautéed vegetables, flavorful chicken broth, and a touch of heavy cream and lemon juice to bring a rich yet refreshing taste to your table in just 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups celery, chopped
  • 2 cups carrots, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

Soup Base and Add-ins

  • 10 cups chicken broth (plus up to 2 more as needed)
  • 16 ounces orzo, uncooked
  • 4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)

Final Touches

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or up to 1/4 cup more for taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large stock pot over medium to medium-high heat. When the oil is bubbly and fragrant, add the chopped celery, carrots, onion, poultry seasoning, and salt. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and aromatic, approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
  2. Add Broth, Orzo, and Chicken: Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the uncooked orzo and shredded chicken, making sure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Let the soup simmer uncovered for 10 to 14 minutes or until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Add Cream and Lemon Juice: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice while stirring continuously to fully incorporate them into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors and thicken slightly.
  5. Adjust and Serve: Taste the soup and add extra chicken broth or lemon juice if desired to achieve your preferred consistency and lemony brightness. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the soup hot and enjoy this creamy, tangy comfort meal.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option, but cooked shredded chicken works well too.
  • If the soup is too thick, add extra chicken broth to thin it out.
  • Adjust lemon juice amount depending on your taste preference for brightness and acidity.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness and color.
  • This soup stores well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheats nicely on the stove.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/creamy-lemon-chicken-orzo-soup-recipe/