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