Name: Bright and Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup orzo pasta; Juice and zest of 1 large lemon; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped

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Bright and Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup 🥣🍋✨

1. Introduction

Discover the comforting warmth of a bowl of lemon chicken soup that’s both bright and soothing — perfect for weeknights or whenever you’re craving a cozy meal. This bright lemon chicken soup with tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and a zingy lemon finish offers a delightful twist on classic cozy orzo soup. Its vibrant citrus notes and hearty ingredients make it a standout in your culinary rotation. Whether you’re battling the winter blues or simply seeking a nourishing dish, this recipe guarantees comfort with a tangy twist.

2. Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
¾ cup orzo pasta
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Lemon Chicken Soup

Preparing the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the diced carrots and celery, cooking until they soften slightly, about 5 minutes.

Building the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.

Cooking the Orzo and Chicken

Add the cooked shredded chicken and orzo pasta to the simmering broth. Cook until the orzo is tender, approximately 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Adding Lemon and Finishing Touches

Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Adjust seasoning if necessary. For an extra burst of flavor, add minced fresh parsley just before serving. This step elevates the soup into a truly bright lemon chicken soup experience that’s both refreshing and comforting.

4. Storage Tips and Shelf Life

Store any leftover bright lemon chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore the soup’s consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve this cozy orzo soup with warm crusty bread or a light side salad. For added flavor and texture, top with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This weeknight chicken soup pairs perfectly with a glass of crisp white wine or a steaming hot cup of tea. Explore other comforting options with this French onion soup pizza for a hearty meal.

6. FAQs about Lemon Chicken Soup

Can I substitute the chicken with a vegetarian option?

Yes! Replace shredded chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based twist.

How long does it take to prepare this bright and cozy lemon chicken soup?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day! Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with these essential tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick roasting or warming up bread alongside your soup.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heat for cooking ingredients to perfection.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Use for preparing complementary grilled chicken or vegetables.

8. Related Recipes & Inspiration

Explore other delightful recipes like chocolate croissant breakfast bake or discover festive treats such as Valentine ganache cookies. For holiday baking, check out the festive Christmas bread.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the comforting embrace of this bright lemon chicken soup. Its vivid citrus flavor balances the richness of tender chicken and hearty orzo, making it an ideal meal for cozy evenings or busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this weeknight chicken soup elevates comfort food with a vibrant, zesty twist. Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and savor a bowl of warmth and brightness that’s sure to become a favorite in your home recipe collection.

Bright and Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup