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Cozy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup for a Bright Comfort Meal

LEMON CHICKEN ORZO SOUP
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There’s something magical about the first chill in the air that makes me crave cozy bowls of soup. Just last week, I found myself in the kitchen, reminiscing about those comforting flavors of my childhood, particularly my mom’s legendary chicken noodle soup. It was then that the idea of a lighter, yet equally satisfying Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup struck me.

As I chopped the celery and carrots, the fresh aroma filled the room, instantly uplifting my spirits. I knew I was onto something special—this soup is all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Bright, zesty lemon harmonizes with tender chicken and just the right amount of savory herbs, making it a family favorite that’s sure to bring comfort, especially as the seasons change.

Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or hosting loved ones for a cozy dinner, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect choice. Quick to whip up yet undeniably delicious, it's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to rekindle your love for homemade meals!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 finely chopped celery stalk
  • 1 finely chopped carrot
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 uncooked chicken breasts
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • 1 lemon juice
  • to taste freshly chopped parsley
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped celery stalk, 1 finely chopped carrot, and 1 chopped onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and aromatically fragrant.
  2. Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until it turns golden and releases its pungent aroma.
  3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and stir for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste, creating a slight roux.
  4. Gradually add 6 cups of chicken broth while stirring until the flour dissolves completely. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and 2 uncooked chicken breasts. Bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Cover the pot (keeping the lid slightly ajar) and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  6. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo until well combined, and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente.
  7. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with tender chicken.
  8. Add the juice of 1 lemon, freshly chopped parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delightful soup!

Notes

  • Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F; this keeps it juicy and prevents drying out.
  • Opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you're sensitive to salt; you'll be able to control taste while keeping it healthy.
  • Stir the orzo frequently while cooking; it can stick to the bottom of the pot, making for an uneven texture in your soup.
  • Feel free to add more lemon juice before serving; it enhances the freshness of this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup.
  • If you plan on storing leftovers, remember that orzo absorbs liquid; add extra broth when reheating to revive its wonderfully comforting texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipecrown.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup/