Zesty Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
This zesty soup combines tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh spinach in a flavorful lemon-infused broth. It's a comforting dish perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 medium carrots sliced into rounds
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 juice of fresh lemon
- 1 zest of lemon
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery; cook for 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil; add chicken breasts, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Lower heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
- Stir in orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and spinach; cook for 1 minute until spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; serve hot garnished with parsley.
Notes
Serve hot with a lemon wedge for extra flavor.