Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Discover the perfect balance of zesty lemon, tender chicken, and creamy broth with this lemon chicken orzo soup recipe. This hearty soup is loaded with fresh vegetables, spinach, and a flavorful blend of herbs, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a touch of heavy cream gives the soup a velvety finish, while orzo adds a delightful texture. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving guests, this recipe is easy to make and full of vibrant, comforting flavors. Customize it with tips and variations for the ultimate family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¼ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (see notes)
• Lemon pepper seasoning (see notes)

For the Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon each: dried oregano, basil, parsley, mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon dried dill weed

For the Soup:

• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ¾ cup carrots, diced
• 2 sticks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon (3–4 tablespoons)
• ¾ cup uncooked orzo

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with lemon pepper seasoning and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
   • Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes. Dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
2. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Add the white wine to the pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 4 minutes or until the wine is reduced by half.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Add the butter, followed by the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Build the Soup Base:
   • Stir in the dried seasonings, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, coating the vegetables. Add the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, then return the chicken to the pot. Simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Cook the Orzo Separately:
   • While the soup simmers, cook the orzo in a separate pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Finish the Soup:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully melted. Add the spinach and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes. Remove the soup from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
7. Serve:
   • Add cooked orzo to serving bowls and ladle the soup over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Comforting: The zesty lemon flavor balances perfectly with the creamy, savory broth, creating a comforting yet refreshing soup.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, veggies, and fresh spinach, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Easy to Make: Using simple ingredients, this one-pot soup (plus orzo) comes together with minimal effort and cleanup.

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Tips

• Cooking the Orzo Separately: Keeps the soup from becoming overly thick as the orzo won’t absorb the broth. Perfect for storing leftovers.
• Tender Chicken: Simmer the chicken gently to prevent it from drying out or becoming tough.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning, lemon juice, or Parmesan to your liking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Wine-Free Option: Substitute the white wine with additional chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a hint of acidity.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetables: Add zucchini, kale, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.

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FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup base and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the orzo fresh and add it when reheating to keep it from getting mushy.

What kind of chicken can I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken also work well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze the soup without the orzo for best results. Add freshly cooked orzo when reheating.

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Serving

Ladle this hearty soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad. For extra brightness, garnish with fresh parsley or lemon zest.

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Suggestions

• Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for quick, comforting meals on busy days.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a complete dining experience.
• For a touch of spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the soup.