Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Enjoy the comforting flavors of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, a hearty dish perfect for cooler days. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and delicate orzo pasta in a flavorful broth enhanced with lemon and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

• 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, or to taste
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, sauté celery, carrots, and onions in butter and olive oil over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add Aromatic Flavors: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour and cook for another minute to create a roux.
3. Create the Broth: Pour in chicken broth, stirring until flour dissolves. Add Italian seasoning and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover with a slightly open lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cook the Orzo: Stir in orzo and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Prepare the Chicken: Remove chicken breasts from the pot, cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to the soup.
6. Add Flavor: Stir in lemon juice (adjust to taste), fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Chicken Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe cooking.
• Flavor Enhancement: Adjust lemon juice and seasoning according to personal preference.
• Storage: Add more chicken broth to leftovers as orzo tends to absorb liquid.