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Spring Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

A bright and light soup packed with protein and fresh herbs, perfect for welcoming spring without sacrificing comfort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Easy, Soup
Cuisine: American, Spring
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced or shredded
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (sub: brown rice orzo for whole grain)
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (substitute vegetable broth for vegetarian) Use unsalted broth for low-sodium diets.
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional) Adds depth.
  • 1 large zest and juice of a lemon (sub with lime for a tangy twist)
  • 1 cup packed baby spinach or spring greens
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped Sub with dill or basil for variation.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Optional garnish: shaved Parmesan, lemon slices, extra-virgin olive oil drizzle

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Zest the lemon first and reserve the zest.
  2. This releases aromatic oils and builds fragrance early.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and lemon zest; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add diced chicken to the pot and sear gently until just opaque, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Optional: Pour in 1/2 cup white wine and scrape up browned bits. Add warm chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Add orzo and simmer according to package directions (typically 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, spinach, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Serving
  1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with shaved Parmesan or extra lemon slices.

Notes

For family meals, keep a bowl of grated Parmesan and lemon wedges on the table so everyone can customize.