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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup in bowl with lemon slices and parsley
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A light yet comforting soup made with tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a bright hint of lemon. Perfect for cozy nights, quick dinners, or soothing cold-weather meals.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¾ cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

2. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir until blended. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring. Add bay leaf, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.

3. Bring the soup to a gentle boil and stir in orzo. Simmer for about 10 minutes until orzo is tender. For later serving, cook orzo separately and add just before serving.

4. Add shredded chicken and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.

5. Ladle into bowls and optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

To prevent the orzo from soaking up all the broth, cook it separately if storing for later.

Always use fresh lemon juice for best flavor, and don’t skip the butter—it adds unmatched richness.

Spinach or kale can be added for extra color and nutrition.

Nutrition

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