Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the kind of cozy meal that feels nourishing yet light at the same time. It combines tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a bright lemony broth that instantly wakes up your taste buds. While many soups feel heavy, this one stays fresh and comforting without weighing you down.

Because Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup uses simple pantry ingredients, it fits perfectly into busy weeknights. At the same time, the vibrant lemon flavor makes it special enough for guests. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just craving something soothing, this soup delivers every time.

The first time I made Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, I wanted something comforting but not creamy or overly rich. I had chicken in the fridge, a lemon on the counter, and a box of orzo in the pantry. I tossed everything into a pot without much expectation. However, once the broth started simmering and the lemon brightened the entire kitchen, I knew I had found a keeper. When I served it, everyone asked for seconds. Since then, this soup has become my go-to whenever I need something warm, simple, and uplifting.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a light, cozy soup with tender chicken, delicate orzo, and a bright lemony broth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped finely
• 0.5 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 0.25 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1.5 lbs uncooked chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• wooden spoon
• Knife

Method

 

1. Sauté celery, carrots, and onion in butter and olive oil for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth, stir until smooth, then add Italian seasoning and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 15 minutes.
5. Add orzo and cook 10 minutes, stirring often.
6. Remove chicken, cut into pieces, return to pot, then stir in lemon juice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 32gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 4500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For meal prep, cook the orzo separately to prevent it from absorbing too much broth in storage.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Why Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Is So Popular

Light Yet Comforting

Many classic chicken soups rely on noodles or rice. However, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup elevates that familiar comfort with bright citrus flavor. The lemon cuts through the savory broth, so each spoonful tastes fresh rather than heavy.

Because orzo resembles rice but cooks quickly like pasta, it creates a satisfying texture without long cooking times. Meanwhile, the chicken adds protein and heartiness.

As a result, this soup works year-round. It feels cozy in winter, yet refreshing in spring.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don't need specialty items to make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. Instead, you rely on everyday vegetables and pantry staples:

• Celery
• Carrots
• Onion
• Garlic
• Butter and olive oil
• Flour
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Orzo
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper

Although the ingredient list stays simple, each one builds depth. The vegetables create an aromatic base. Flour lightly thickens the broth. Italian seasoning adds subtle herb flavor. Finally, lemon juice brings brightness that ties everything together.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

First, heat butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Then sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for another minute. This step helps create a slightly thicker broth later.

After that, slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring. Make sure the flour dissolves completely so the soup stays smooth.

Step 2: Simmer the Chicken

Add Italian seasoning and whole chicken breasts to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Then reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Because the chicken cooks directly in the broth, it absorbs flavor while keeping the soup simple.

Step 3: Add the Orzo

Stir in the uncooked orzo and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring often. Orzo tends to settle at the bottom, so frequent stirring prevents sticking.

Once the chicken reaches 165°F internally, remove it from the pot. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and return it to the soup.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs

Finally, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

The lemon transforms the broth instantly. While it may not seem like much at first, that small amount brightens the entire dish. If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, add more lemon juice gradually.

Serve immediately for best texture.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Control the Lemon Flavor

Lemon adds freshness, but balance matters. Therefore, start with one tablespoon of juice and increase slowly. You can also add a little lemon zest for even more brightness.

Serving the soup with lemon slices on the side allows everyone to customize their bowl.

Prevent Orzo from Soaking Up Too Much Broth

Orzo absorbs liquid over time. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it to individual bowls.

Alternatively, simply add extra chicken broth when reheating. This restores the soup's consistency easily.

Try Easy Variations

You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat. Additionally, rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it during the orzo stage so it doesn't overcook.

For extra substance, add white beans or a handful of spinach near the end of cooking.

What to Serve with Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Bread Makes It Complete

A warm baguette or slice of sourdough pairs perfectly with Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. The bread soaks up the lemony broth and rounds out the meal.

Add a Simple Salad

If you want a balanced dinner, serve this soup with a crisp green salad. Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complement the bright flavors beautifully.

Because the soup stays light, you can easily pair it with simple sides without feeling overly full.

Storage and Reheating

Store Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.

When reheating, warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the texture if needed.

You can freeze the soup, but for best results, freeze it without the orzo and add freshly cooked pasta after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup ahead of time?
Yes. However, cook the orzo separately if preparing far in advance.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Add it during the final simmer so it stays tender.

3. Is this soup healthy?
It contains lean protein, vegetables, and light broth, making it a balanced option.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Simply omit the butter and use olive oil only.

5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F internally.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup combines comfort and brightness in every bowl. The tender chicken, soft orzo, and fresh lemon create a balanced flavor that feels both cozy and refreshing.

Because it relies on simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can prepare it confidently. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving a nourishing meal, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup never disappoints.

Once you make it, you'll understand why it quickly becomes a regular favorite in so many kitchens.