Title: Warm Up with Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!
Introduction:
Experience the comforting zing of fresh citrus combined with hearty chicken in this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. This recipe is perfect for a chilly day, or simply when you need a warming, uplifting meal.
Why Make This Recipe:
This soup encompasses authentic flavor with the punch of lemon zest and the richness of chicken. It is not only comforting, rich, and savory, but also has the perfect balance of tanginess that elevates the dish.
How to make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup:
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
– Zest and juice of 2 lemons
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot on medium heat.
2. Next, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté them until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth to the mixture and bring it to a simmer.
4. Stir in the orzo and let it cook for around 8 minutes until the pasta is just right — al dente.
5. Now, put in the shredded chicken, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it another 5 minutes to simmer.
6. Lastly, mix in the fresh spinach and wait until it wilts in the soup.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary and serve while hot, with fresh parsley for garnish.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup:
Serve this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup piping hot. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for an added flavour and color. This soup works perfectly as a stand-alone entrée or as a warming start to a comfort food dinner.
How to Store Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup:
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator – it will last for up to 3-4 days. When you reheat, be sure to bring it to a simmer, not a boil to retain the taste and texture.
Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup:
– Using freshly squeezed lemon juice will make a big flavor difference over the bottled counterpart.
– To turn up the flavor even more, use homemade chicken broth if possible.
– Additionally, for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
Variations:
– You can add some red chili flakes to spice it up.
– Another variation can be adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchinis, for more health benefits!
FAQs:
1. Can I use other pastas for this recipe?
– Of course, you can use rice or even quinoa as alternatives to orzo.
2. Can I make it vegan?
– For a vegan option, just replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken, adding more vegetables if needed.
3. Can this soup be frozen?
– It sure can! Just remember when you reheat it, do so slowly on low heat.
So, cozy up and enjoy this delightful Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, letting its bright, lemony flavors lift your spirits.