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Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for Chilly Day

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A light yet comforting soup made with tender chicken, vegetables, and orzo pasta in a lemony herb-infused broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this cozy and refreshing dish is hearty, nourishing, and ready in just 30 minutes.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 carrots, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

6 cups chicken stock

2 cups water

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp turmeric

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper

1 cup orzo pasta

1 cup frozen peas

2 lemons (zest and juice)

3 green onions, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
  2. Add chicken, chicken stock, and water. Stir in oregano, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, skimming off any foam.
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add orzo and peas to the pot, then bring the broth to a gentle boil.
  4. Shred the chicken with two forks, then return it to the pot. Cook until orzo is al dente, about 8 minutes.
  5. Turn off the heat. Stir in lemon juice, zest, green onion, and parsley.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve warm with crusty bread or salad on the side.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
  • Add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for more greens.
  • Swap orzo for rice to make it gluten-free.
  • Add dill with parsley for extra Mediterranean flavor.
  • Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamy version.
  • To prevent mushy orzo, cook it separately and add just before serving.

Nutrition