Go Back

Healthy Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

A bright, nourishing, Mediterranean-inspired lemon chicken orzo soup made with wholesome ingredients, vibrant citrus, tender chicken, and cozy pasta for the perfect comforting bowl.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 298
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5-6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil to develop a flavorful base.
  3. Add orzo and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce heat to low, stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream, and simmer 5 minutes.
  5. Turn off heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper. Rest briefly before serving.

Notes

Add more broth when reheating as orzo absorbs liquid. Add lemon only after removing from heat to prevent curdling and bitter flavor.