Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This comforting soup combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and delicate orzo, brightened with a touch of lemon juice, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely adds crunch
- 2 medium carrots, peeled & chopped finely provides sweetness
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped adds depth of flavor
- 3 cloves garlic, minced brings aromatic flavor
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter for richness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil enhances moisture
- 2 tablespoons flour thickens the soup
- 6 cups chicken broth provides the base
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning adds herbaceous notes
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts main protein source
- 1 cup uncooked orzo adds heartiness
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for freshness, adjust to taste
- Salt & pepper to taste seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by preparing the vegetables. Finely chop the celery, carrots, and onion.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion to the pot. Stir them occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook the flour for about a minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the Italian seasoning and uncooked chicken breasts to the pot.
- Cover the pot and simmer the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board to rest before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- Stir the uncooked orzo into the soup and let it cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the lemon juice.
- Add the chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Consider enjoying this soup as a cozy family meal, paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Adjust seasonings and lemon juice to your preference for the best taste.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.5gSodium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
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