Lively Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A bright and comforting soup combining tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh greens, perfect for a nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced into small cubes
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- for garnish fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo, shredded chicken, lemon zest, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is al dente.
- Stir in chopped greens and lemon juice; cook for 2-3 minutes until greens are tender. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.