If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness, then this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is just the recipe you need! It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your tummy, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant spinach all swimming in a creamy broth with a zesty twist from fresh lemon juice makes it simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

The best part? This soup is super easy to make and can be a fantastic option for meal prep. You can whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, or serve it up on chilly nights when you want something hearty yet light. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 40 minutes! Perfect for those hectic evenings when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly: Kids love it! With its creamy texture and subtle lemon flavor, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
Make-Ahead Magic: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Just cook the orzo separately to keep leftovers fresh for later!
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of herbs and freshly squeezed lemon juice gives this soup an uplifting taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken and spinach, this soup is not only filling but also good for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is simple with these wholesome ingredients. They come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (see notes)
lemon pepper seasoning (see notes)
1 teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, basil, parsley, mustard powder
½ teaspoon dried dill weed
½ cup dry white grape juice (see notes)
2 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion (diced)
¾ cup carrots (diced)
2 sticks celery (diced)
4 cloves garlic
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Juice of 1 lemon (3-4 Tbsp.)
¾ cup orzo (uncooked)

Variations

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers to boost the nutrition factor.
Go gluten-free: Substitute traditional orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a delicious alternative.
Change the greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach if you prefer!

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breast with lemon pepper seasoning and add it to the pot. Searing it creates a beautiful golden color while sealing in juices. After about 3-4 minutes on each side, remove the chicken and let it rest before dicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Build Your Base

In the same pot, pour in the white grape juice. This step is crucial as it helps deglaze the pot, releasing all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom. Bring it to a gentle simmer until reduced by half before adding butter along with diced onions, carrots, and celery. Soften these veggies for about 5 minutes; their natural sweetness will enhance your soup’s flavor!

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth

Now it’s time to add all those wonderful seasonings along with hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything well before pouring in the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil before lowering to a simmer. Add back your diced chicken and let everything meld together gently until cooked through.

Step 4: Cook Your Orzo Separately

While your soup simmers away creating delicious flavors, boil your orzo in a separate pot of salted water according to package instructions. This keeps it from soaking up too much broth later on.

Step 5: Creamy Finish

Lower the heat on your soup and stir in heavy cream gradually while sprinkling in Parmesan cheese continuously. This creates that luscious creamy texture we all crave!

Step 6: Add Spinach & Lemon Juice

Gently fold in fresh spinach until wilted—this should take just about 2-3 minutes. Then finish off by stirring in freshly squeezed lemon juice for that bright zing that brings everything together.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Finally, add cooked orzo into serving bowls and ladle your warm soup right on top. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Making Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can ensure it’s a showstopper!

Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley can elevate the flavor profile of your soup, bringing a vibrant taste that dried herbs might not match.
Sear the chicken properly: Searing the chicken until golden brown adds depth to the broth and enhances the overall flavor of the soup, creating a heartier dish.
Adjust thickness to preference: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add less broth or more orzo. This flexibility allows you to tailor the consistency to your liking!
Add lemon zest for extra zing: Incorporating some lemon zest along with the juice intensifies that bright citrus flavor, making every spoonful more refreshing.
Make ahead for flavor development: Soups often taste even better the next day as flavors meld together. Consider making it ahead of time for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Serving your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to ensure a delightful presentation.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and complements the flavors beautifully.
Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus if they desire.
Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of heat and sophistication to each bowl.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into your soup, providing a satisfying crunch alongside each sip.
Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the soup, balancing out the meal.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal while harmonizing well with the flavors in your soup.
Cheese quesadilla: A simple cheese quesadilla cut into triangles makes for a fun dipping option that kids will love!

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe! It’s sure to become a family favorite that warms hearts and bellies alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for later. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it into airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the soup cool completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
If the soup thickens after freezing, add a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe or its variations, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

Can I make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

What can I substitute for orzo in this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

If you want an alternative to orzo, consider using small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How long does Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 4 days in the fridge. Enjoy it fresh!

Can I add other vegetables to my Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, kale, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup as much as I do! Its comforting flavors and vibrant ingredients make it a special dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that warms both heart and soul. Happy cooking!

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

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Description

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and delicate orzo in a creamy, zesty broth. This comforting soup is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the refreshing brightness of fresh lemon juice and a medley of flavorful herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or serve on chilly nights when you crave something hearty yet light. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying soup!

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast
lemon pepper seasoning
1 teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, basil, parsley, mustard powder
½ teaspoon dried dill weed
1 small yellow onion (diced)
¾ cup carrots (diced)
2 sticks celery (diced)
4 cloves garlic
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
Juice of 1 lemon (3–4 Tbsp.)
¾ cup orzo (uncooked)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken with lemon pepper and sear until golden (3-4 minutes per side). Remove and dice.
Deglaze the pot with white grape juice and simmer until reduced by half. Add butter, onion, carrots, and celery; soften for 5 minutes.
Stir in seasonings, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
Lower heat and return diced chicken to the pot; simmer until cooked through.
Boil orzo separately according to package instructions.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the soup until well combined.
Fold in fresh spinach until wilted; add lemon juice to taste.
Serve hot with cooked orzo.