Name: Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; ¾ cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 large lemon (zest and juice); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl yet still light and vibrant, this Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables all brought to life with a bright splash of lemon juice and zest. It’s the kind of soup that’s perfect when you want comforting flavors without heaviness, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxing weekend lunches. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite in your soup rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the center with two raw chicken fillets placed side by side, surrounded by small white bowls with different ingredients. Starting from the top and moving clockwise, there is a small bowl with a green bay leaf and yellow spice, a bowl with fresh green spinach leaves, lemon wedges, orange carrot slices, chopped white onion, a clear bowl with broth, finely chopped green herbs, a garlic bulb, a bowl with light brown rice, chopped green celery, crushed white garlic, olive oil, and salt. All bowls are on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is not in the frame. The lighting is bright and natural, making the colors of the ingredients stand out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the aromatic onion and garlic that build the base to the fresh lemon that adds the final refreshing zing. Together, they create a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this soup truly comforting and satisfying.

1 tbsp olive oil: A light, heart-healthy fat that starts the sauté and adds a subtle richness.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor foundation.
2 carrots, sliced: Bring a natural sweetness and bright orange color to the pot.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Provide an aromatic crunch and a subtle earthiness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Intensifies the aroma and layers of flavor with its pungent warmth.
8 cups chicken broth: The hearty, savory liquid base that ties the whole soup together.
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Delivers protein and makes the soup hearty and filling.
¾ cup uncooked orzo pasta: Small pasta pearls that cook quickly and add a nice tender bite.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds Mediterranean herbal notes that complement the lemon beautifully.
½ tsp dried thyme: Offers subtle earthiness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
1 large lemon (zest and juice): The star ingredient that brightens and refreshes every spoonful.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Make Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Allow them to cook gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step creates a flavorful base for the soup, releasing the natural sweetness and aromas from the veggies.

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook just for about 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if burnt, so keep an eye on it. This brief cooking releases its wonderful aroma that will elevate the entire soup’s flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the chicken broth, which is the heart of this soup, providing savory depth and warmth. Bring the broth to a rolling boil while the sautéed vegetables infuse their flavor throughout.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo and Season

Once boiling, add the orzo pasta along with dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender but not mushy. This gives the soup a lovely texture and lets the pasta absorb the beautiful flavors around it.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken

Now, stir in your cooked shredded chicken. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes just until the chicken is heated through, allowing those tender pieces to soak up the broth’s flavor and remain juicy.

Step 6: Brighten with Lemon and Herbs

Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice along with chopped parsley. This final touch is what sets this soup apart by giving it a fantastic zingy brightness that feels like sunshine in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with clear chicken soup resting on a white marbled surface. The soup has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a light yellowish broth, the middle layer contains shredded white chicken and small orange carrot pieces, and the top layer includes dark green spinach leaves floating alongside herbs sprinkled evenly on the surface. A woman's hand is holding a light wooden spoon stirring inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin lemon slices on top. A little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add subtle layers of flavor and color, making each serving feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or a light green salad makes for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner. Garlic bread or a simple Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad with olive oil and lemon juice perfectly complement the soup’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a standout presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze more fresh juice if desired. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can create delightful variations depending on preferences.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, but keep in mind the orzo will continue to absorb broth, so the soup may thicken in the fridge.

Freezing

While you can freeze this soup, the orzo tends to become mushy after thawing. If freezing, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it when reheating to maintain a pleasant texture. Store in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, adding extra chicken broth or water if the soup is too thick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. The fresh lemon flavor is best added after reheating if possible.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells work well. However, orzo cooks quickly and has the perfect size and texture for this soup.

Is rotisserie chicken okay to use in this Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred the meat and stir it in during the final steps.

How can I adjust the lemon flavor if I prefer it milder?

Add the lemon juice and zest gradually, tasting as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s in!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken or replace it with plant-based protein or extra vegetables.

What’s the best way to store leftover soup to prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

Storing the soup separately from the cooked orzo and adding the pasta when reheating can help keep its texture pleasant. Otherwise, eat leftovers within a day or two for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe is such a joy to make and eat—it’s simple, wholesome, and has that perfect balance of comforting warmth and bright fresh flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, I hope you give this soup a try and discover how easy and satisfying homemade soup can be. It’s guaranteed to brighten up your meal routine and maybe even your day!