This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is light yet hearty, featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and orzo pasta in a bright, lemony broth. It’s comforting, wholesome, and bursting with Mediterranean freshness!
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
¾ cup orzo pasta
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
1 cup fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add broth, chicken, and bay leaf. Simmer 20 minutes.
Remove chicken, shred, and return to pot. Add orzo and cook 8–10 minutes.
Stir in lemon juice, zest, spinach, and herbs. Simmer 2 minutes more.
Season to taste and serve warm with crusty bread.