Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

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If there ever was a bowl of soup that could warm your soul and brighten your day all at once, it’s this Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup. With a light broth that sings with citrusy brightness and tender bites of chicken and orzo, this comforting classic gets a fresh twist that makes it unforgettable. The tang of lemon weaves beautifully through each spoonful, while the soft orzo and chunks of chicken make it as satisfying as it is nourishing.

Whether you’re under the weather or just need something cozy on a rainy night, this soup is like a gentle hug in a bowl. It’s not heavy like cream-based soups, yet it’s not too light to leave you wanting more. You can whip it up with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, and it’s ready in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight option.

Why You’ll Love This Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

This soup brings the best of both worlds—comfort and freshness. The lemon keeps it from feeling too rich, while the orzo gives it heartiness without turning it into a stew. It’s perfect for meal prep because the flavors only get better the next day, and it freezes well too. Best of all, it’s incredibly adaptable: add in spinach or kale, use leftover chicken, or go bold with a pinch of chili flakes.

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Soup?

Absolutely. Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving hack for this recipe. It gives you tender, flavorful meat without the extra cooking time. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it toward the end so it doesn’t dry out. If you’ve got leftover grilled or poached chicken, those work well too. The broth is where most of the flavor lives, so don’t stress too much about how the chicken starts out.

Ingredients for the Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

This soup relies on a few simple ingredients to create a flavor-packed dish that feels both light and comforting.

Olive oil adds a silky base and brings out the sweetness in the sautéed vegetables.

Yellow onion creates a savory backbone and a mild sweetness once softened.

Garlic delivers that irresistible aromatic boost essential in any good broth.

Carrots offer gentle sweetness and a bit of texture with every bite.

Celery brings a nice earthiness and balances the overall flavor.

Chicken broth is the heart of the soup; choose low-sodium so you can control the salt levels.

Cooked chicken makes it hearty and protein-packed; any cooked or leftover chicken works.

Orzo pasta gives the soup its comforting, slightly chewy texture.

Lemon juice is the star, adding brightness and that unmistakable zing.

Fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and fresh, herby lift at the end.

Salt and black pepper to taste, enhancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Chicken

Stir in the orzo and simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Add the cooked shredded chicken and heat through.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Herbs

Remove the soup from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. You can add a little more fresh lemon or herbs on top if you like a brighter finish.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is best served hot, fresh off the stove, with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of parmesan if you’re in the mood. This recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, depending on how generous you are with your ladle.

For storing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re freezing it, be aware that the orzo can soften over time, so you might want to cook it separately and add it fresh when reheating.

What to Serve With Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup?

Crusty Bread or Focaccia

Perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop of lemony broth.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

The garlicky crunch contrasts beautifully with the tender soup.

Greek Salad

A refreshing combo of cucumber, feta, and olives pairs naturally with the lemon notes in the soup.

Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

If you’re craving more carbs, these crispy golden bites keep the lemon theme going.

Avocado Toast

It might not be traditional, but the creamy avocado adds a lovely contrast to the bright soup.

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)

A Mediterranean touch that echoes the citrusy flavors of the soup.

Simple Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Pita

Adds coolness and a creamy texture on the side.

Roasted Chickpeas

For an added crunch and protein-rich topping or snack.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If this lemony bowl of goodness hit the spot, you might also love these other comforting recipes:

• Try the Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup for a rich, hearty dinner option.
• Go veggie with the Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup that’s loaded with cheese and greens.
• Embrace bold flavors in the Thai Curry Chicken Noodle Soup for a spicy twist on comfort food.
• Cozy up with Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup that brings a rustic Italian vibe.
• Or try Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono if you want a creamy Mediterranean variation.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the lemon or keep it subtle? Did you try adding greens or spice it up with chili?

I always love hearing how people bring their own spin to this bowl. Got questions? Ask away. Let’s keep the soup magic going.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and cozy meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite spoonful.

Conclusion

Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be heavy to be satisfying. With its balance of brightness, heartiness, and simple ingredients, this soup delivers flavor and feel-good nourishment in one cozy bowl. Whether you’re making it on a chilly day or prepping for the week ahead, it’s bound to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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