Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This creamy, lemony chicken orzo soup is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. Everything cooks in one pot in about 30 minutes for minimal cleanup, and the simple combination of chicken, kale, and lemon makes it deliciously satisfying.

Easy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

• Simple, one-pot recipe that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
• Creamy, lemony broth and tender chicken make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Olive Oil & Butter: The perfect combination to saute the aromatics of this delicious soup! If you’re missing one just subsitute with the other.
• Mirepoix: A delicious combo of carrots, celery, and yellow onion – it’s the best way to start any soup! Check to see if your grocery store has pre-diced mirepoix to save even more prep time.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth. Use garlic paste or garlic powder in a pinch.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs for a well-rounded flavor. Substitute with dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried rosemary if needed.
• Rubbed Sage: Adds subtle earthiness that complements the lemon. Dried thyme or dried rosemary can be swapped in.
• Kale: Brings color and nutrients. Spinach or Swiss chard are good alternatives.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: A quick shortcut for rich, tender chicken flavor. Any leftover chicken will work!
• Orzo Pasta: Gives the soup a comforting texture similar to risotto. You can substitute ditalini or small shells if you prefer.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful base. Chicken stock or vegetable broth works too.
• Half And Half: Adds a little creaminess to the soup without being heavy. Swap for milk or a splash of cream if desired.
• Lemon Zest And Juice: Add bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness. Adjust to taste for extra zing.
• Fresh Chopped Herbs (Parsley + Dill): Enhance the freshness of the soup. Try your favorite fresh herb in this soup recipe.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Sauté the veggies. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes, then add garlic and dried herbs and cook for another minute or so.

Simmer the soup. Add kale, shredded chicken, orzo, chicken broth, half and half, and a bit more salt and pepper. Turn heat to medium-high, cover, and bring to a simmer. Reduce to low and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes so the orzo doesn’t stick.

Finish with lemon and herbs. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
• Add extra broth after sitting if the soup thickens too much. Pasta absorbs liquid as it rests.
• Use freshly squeezed juice and freshly zested lemon for the best flavor. It makes a big difference!
• For a dairy-free version, omit the half and half and add a splash of full-fat canned coconut milk for creaminess.
• The ingredient list is short and sweet so salt and pepper are going to go a long way in boosting the overall flavors of the dish. If the soup tastes a bit flat, add more salt!!!!

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can make this soup up to 2 days ahead.
• Cook the soup without adding the orzo, then store it in the fridge.
• When ready to serve, reheat the soup, add the orzo, and simmer until the pasta is tender.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• The orzo will absorb some of the broth, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating.

Freezing Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• For best results, freeze the soup before adding the orzo.
• Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat and add the orzo to cook fresh.

Reheating Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Add extra broth or water to loosen the texture if it’s too thick.
• You can also microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Serving Suggestions

• crispy garlic bread
• Caprese garlic cheese bread
• simple house salad
• beet and feta salad
• air fryer asparagus

Try these easy soup recipes next!