Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup – Bright & Comforting Homemade Bowl

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of comfort and sunshine? 🍋 There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup — it’s light yet deeply satisfying, simple yet full of layered flavor. This traditional soup brings together tender chicken, silky orzo, and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, creating a balance between cozy warmth and refreshing tang. In many homes, this recipe is a go-to remedy for cold days or weary spirits — the kind of dish that heals from the inside out.

Passed down through generations, this classic has roots in Mediterranean kitchens where wholesome ingredients speak for themselves. 🥣 With each spoonful, you’ll taste the harmony of fresh herbs, savory broth, and that hint of citrus that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the perfect homemade comfort for any season — gentle on the stomach, nourishing for the soul, and sure to win hearts at the dinner table. 🌿

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Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Finishing

• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: 1 egg yolk whisked with 2 tbsp warm broth (for extra silkiness)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Base:
   Pour in chicken broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the Orzo:
   Stir in orzo pasta and cook uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Add Chicken and Lemon:
   Stir in shredded chicken and simmer another 3–5 minutes. Add lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Optional Creamy Twist:
   For a silkier texture, whisk the egg yolk with warm broth and stir it into the soup slowly. Do not boil after adding — just warm through gently.
6. Serve Warm:
   Ladle into bowls, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and enjoy the perfect harmony of brightness and comfort in every bite. 🍋

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 320 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️