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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

A comforting chicken soup infused with lemon and orzo pasta, providing a fresh and zesty flavor perfect for light lunches or family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the soup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion, diced adds flavor and sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for aroma
  • 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless choose according to preference for flavor
  • 6 cups chicken broth base of the soup
  • 1 cup orzo pasta for texture
  • 2 lemons juiced and zested for acidity and aroma
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for seasoning
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped optional, for added greens
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add chicken (either raw or pre-cooked as per choice) to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
Cooking
  1. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Remove chicken, shred it, and then return it to the pot.
  3. Add the orzo pasta and cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
  4. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add chopped spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

To avoid mushy orzo, monitor cooking time closely and serve immediately. Leftovers may thicken as orzo continues to absorb liquid. Adjust thickness with additional broth if desired.