Livia Scott
When you’re craving something cozy yet bright, Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort. This soup brings together tender chunks of chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and colorful vegetables in a creamy, lemon-kissed broth that tastes like sunshine in a bowl. It’s hearty enough for dinner but light enough to enjoy any time of year.
Unlike traditional heavy cream-based soups, this one gets its silky texture from a smart blend of broth, dairy, and a pop of citrus that lifts every bite. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a feel-good meal when you’re under the weather. Every spoonful delivers warmth, flavor, and nourishment.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Balanced Flavor: The lemon adds a bright freshness that cuts through the creamy base.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and simple steps make it weeknight-friendly.
- Nutritious & Filling: Loaded with lean protein, vegetables, and pasta for a complete meal.
- Kid-Approved: Creamy and mild, it’s a soup the whole family will enjoy.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the meat and add it during the last few minutes of cooking so it stays tender. It soaks up the creamy lemon broth beautifully, making your soup even more flavorful without extra effort.
Ingredients for the Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Each ingredient in this soup serves a purpose in creating layers of flavor, texture, and comfort.
- Olive Oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and add richness to the base.
- Onion, Carrots, and Celery – The essential trio that forms a savory, aromatic foundation.
- Garlic – Adds a boost of flavor and depth.
- Chicken Broth – Forms the bulk of the soup and provides a savory backdrop.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – The main protein; you can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
- Orzo Pasta – A small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and gives a comforting bite.
- Fresh Spinach – For color, nutrition, and texture.
- Lemon Juice and Zest – Brightens the entire dish with fresh citrusy notes.
- Heavy Cream – Adds a luscious, velvety texture.
- Salt & Pepper – For seasoning and balance.
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – A sprinkle on top adds freshness and color.
How To Make the Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook another minute.
Step 2: Add Broth and Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the orzo and cook according to package directions (usually about 8–10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spinach
Once the orzo is al dente, add the shredded chicken and spinach. Simmer until the spinach wilts and the chicken is warmed through.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Lemon
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let it warm gently without boiling.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve and Store Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This soup is best enjoyed hot, fresh off the stove. The lemony broth and creamy texture are most vibrant when served immediately. It serves about 6 people and makes a satisfying main course paired with some bread or a light salad.
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The orzo may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating. Warm gently over low heat to preserve the creaminess.
What to Serve With Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some easy and delicious ideas:
Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast
Perfect for dipping and soaking up that creamy broth.
Greek Salad
A refreshing side that echoes the Mediterranean flavors.
Roasted Asparagus
Lightly charred and seasoned, it adds a nice texture contrast.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Because creamy soup and melted cheese are a match made in comfort food heaven.
Lemon Herb Couscous
For a light and fluffy grain dish with complimentary citrus notes.
Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Pita
A cooling side with creamy contrast and a bit of tang.
Steamed Broccoli with Parmesan
Adds greens to the table and a hint of savory bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It still adds richness without overpowering the lemon flavor.
Can I use uncooked chicken?
You can! Add diced raw chicken after sautéing the vegetables and let it cook fully in the broth before adding the orzo.
Will the orzo get mushy?
If the soup sits for too long or is reheated multiple times, the orzo can soften. To prevent this, cook the orzo separately and add it just before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Cream-based soups with pasta don’t freeze well. For best results, freeze the broth and chicken mixture before adding the cream and orzo. Finish the soup after thawing.
How do I make it more lemony?
Add more lemon juice or zest to taste just before serving. A splash of lemon brightens the flavor instantly.
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Let me know in the comments how your batch turned out! Did you add extra lemon or try a different green?
I always love to see your twists on my recipes.
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Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect blend of comforting and refreshing. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, citrusy brightness, and creamy broth, it’s a bowl full of feel-good flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup brings both nourishment and joy to your table.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the ultimate cozy bowl for any season. This easy dinner idea combines tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, citrusy brightness, and creamy broth in one pot. It’s light yet hearty, making it perfect for those craving comfort food with a refreshing twist. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, quick dinner, or family-friendly meal prep option, this soup checks all the boxes. It’s a go-to recipe for nourishing your body and warming your soul.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3/4 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add orzo and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in shredded chicken and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
7. Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
8. Stir gently and warm without boiling.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream.
To prevent orzo from softening in leftovers, cook it separately and add when serving.
You can substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: creamy lemon chicken soup, orzo soup, comfort food, easy dinner, chicken soup
