Description
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that still feels light and fresh, this Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is exactly what you need. Packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty orzo pasta, vibrant kale, and a rich, creamy broth brightened with lemon, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, easy meal prep, or simply warming up on a chilly day. It’s a go-to choice for those seeking quick breakfast alternatives, easy dinner solutions, or nourishing meal ideas that don’t skimp on flavor. A standout in the world of food ideas, this dish also fits wonderfully under easy recipe and dinner ideas categories.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ cup orzo pasta
2 cups chopped kale
½ cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add chicken breasts, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken with the seasonings.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the pot.
5. Add the orzo and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
6. Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the kale is wilted.
7. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Notes
For gluten-free, substitute the orzo with rice or gluten-free pasta.
Add lemon juice last to maintain brightness without curdling the cream.
To thin leftover soup, add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: creamy chicken soup, lemon chicken orzo, easy soup, healthy dinner, one-pot meal