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Homemade Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe photo

Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

This Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! Packed with tender chicken, bright lemon, and nutritious veggies, it’s perfect for any chilly day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1.5 lbs uncooked chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 4 cups kale leaves, roughly chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chicken simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
  5. Stir in the uncooked orzo and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Add the chopped kale and cook for a few more minutes until it wilts.
  6. Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Adjust seasoning if needed, and remove the bay leaf before serving.

Notes

  • This soup is great for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.
  • Feel free to substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice based on dietary needs.