Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
A comforting and flavorful soup combining tender vegetables, orzo pasta, and a bright lemon finish, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
olive oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
vegetables
- 2 medium-sized carrots (peeled and chopped finely)
- 2 chopped celery ribs
- 1/2 medium-sized onion (chopped)
garlic
- 3 cloves garlic cloves (minced)
spices
- red pepper flakes
butter
- 2 tablespoons butter
pasta
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
broth
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf bay leaf
salt and pepper
- to taste salt and black pepper
greens
- 1/2 bunch greens (arugula, kale, or spinach)
milk
- 1/2 cup milk (whole, half and half, or coconut milk)
lemon
- 1 lemon lemon (for juice and zest)
for serving
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and chili flakes; cook until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add butter and sauté orzo until golden, about 1-3 minutes.
- Pour in broth, add Italian seasoning and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer 8-10 minutes until orzo is al dente. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in milk, greens, and lemon juice. Cook until greens wilt and soup is warmed through.
- Divide among bowls, top with Parmesan, black pepper, and parsley.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and adjust seasoning to taste.