A Brief History of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Lemon chicken orzo soup is inspired by traditional Greek Avgolemono soup, which combines chicken, rice or pasta, and a silky broth enriched with eggs and lemon. Over time, cooks adapted the recipe with orzo pasta, which adds a light, tender texture. The bright citrus flavor balances the heartiness of chicken and vegetables, making this dish a favorite in Mediterranean households. Today, it’s a go-to comfort soup worldwide—perfect for chilly nights or soothing the soul during cold season.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This lemon chicken orzo soup is a light, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy winter nights or spring gatherings. The tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicate orzo pasta come together in a bright, citrusy broth that feels both refreshing and hearty. What makes this soup special is its balance—warm and filling, yet tangy and uplifting with every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or to comfort someone feeling under the weather, this soup is always a bowl of happiness.
Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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8 cups chicken broth
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken
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1 cup orzo pasta
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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Juice of 2 lemons
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
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Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in shredded chicken, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Add orzo and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
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Stir in fresh lemon juice and parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
For creaminess, whisk in 1 egg yolk with a bit of broth before adding to the soup.
FAQs About Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
1. Can I make lemon chicken orzo soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. For the best results, cook the orzo separately and add it before serving to avoid soggy pasta.
2. What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even rice. Each option adds a slightly different texture but keeps the soup hearty and delicious.
3. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace shredded chicken with chickpeas or white beans. The lemon and herbs still shine, giving you a flavorful vegetarian version.
This classic soup is endlessly adaptable, flavorful, and loved by all ages. Whether you want it light and lemony or heartier with extra vegetables, lemon chicken orzo soup always delivers comfort in every bowl.
