This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and fresh Mediterranean flavor. Made in one pot with tender chicken breast, vegetables, orzo pasta, and finished with bright lemon and dill, this soup is hearty without being heavy.
If you’re looking for a healthy chicken soup recipe, an easy lemon chicken orzo soup, or a comforting meal for busy weeknights, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- One-pot and easy to make
- High-protein and filling
- Bright lemon flavor with fresh herbs
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Comforting without feeling heavy
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- Handful of chopped baby carrots or carrot chips
- 3 celery stalks, finely diced
- ½ medium yellow onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 6½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- Large handful of spinach
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp dried dill
Optional toppings: grated parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes
How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat avocado oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add carrots and celery and cook for about 3 minutes. Add the diced onion and continue cooking until softened, about 7–8 minutes total.
2. Add Garlic and Flour
Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Build the Soup Base
Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring to prevent clumping. Add basil, parsley, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts directly into the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Cook the Chicken
Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot, shred or cut into chunks, then set aside.
5. Add Orzo and Finish Cooking
Return the chicken to the pot along with the uncooked orzo. Simmer until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Finish with Lemon and Spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted. Add lemon juice and dried dill, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve
Serve hot and garnish with grated parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor
- Use chicken thighs for a richer soup
- Thin leftovers with extra broth when reheating
- Don’t overcook the orzo to avoid mushy soup
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make lemon chicken orzo soup ahead of time?
Yes. This soup is great for meal prep. The orzo will absorb broth as it sits, so add extra broth when reheating.
Can I freeze lemon chicken orzo soup?
You can, but for best texture, freeze before adding the orzo and spinach, then add them fresh when reheating.
What pairs well with lemon chicken orzo soup?
Crusty bread, a simple Greek salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This easy lemon chicken orzo soup is comforting, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. With tender chicken, vegetables, pasta, and bright lemon flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat all year long.
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