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Chicken and Orzo Soup Recipe

Chicken and Orzo Soup Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

Every now and then, a recipe comes along that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Chicken and orzo soup is just that. It’s not just a bowlful of flavor; it warms the soul, invites conversation, and fills your home with an aroma that says, “Welcome.”
For those busy nights or lazy weekends, this dish becomes an easy solution that feels fancy without much fuss. With its tender chicken, flavorful broth, and delightful pasta, you'll find it hard to resist a second (or third) helping.
I started making chicken and orzo soup during the first chill of autumn. The crisp air always awakened my desire for something hearty yet comforting. As I perfected my recipe over the years, I learned some great tricks along the way. So, grab your apron and get ready for a delicious adventure.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 215
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 large carrots
  • 2 tablespoons ground turmeric
  • 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herb blend
  • 1 small yellow onion
  • 11/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Juice of 1 to 2 lemons
  • Fresh parsley

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cooking them for about 5-7 minutes, allow the vegetables to soften and the onions to become translucent. Don't rush this step; the aromatics infuse flavor into your base.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
  1. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and kosher salt. Cook for an additional minute until the mixture is fragrant. The spices should awaken your senses and fill your kitchen with inviting aromas.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
  1. Next, add the low-sodium chicken broth, Italian herb blend, and the bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow those flavors to blend for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Orzo and Chicken
  1. Add the uncooked orzo pasta and shredded rotisserie chicken. Give it a gentle stir, letting everything mingle in the pot.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
  1. To thicken the soup, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup, allowing it to thicken nicely.
Step 6: Final Touches
  1. After around 8-10 minutes, when the orzo is tender, remove the bay leaf. Pour in lemon juice to taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm, inviting chicken and orzo soup with your choice of sides!

Notes

  • Storage: This soup holds well in airtight containers for up to four days, perfect for meal prep.
  • Freezer Friendly: You can freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later. Just let it thaw before reheating!
  • Flavor Boost: Letting the soup sit overnight enhances flavors. It’s remarkably better the next day!
  • Maintain Texture: If reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the orzo.
  • Lemon Juice: Adjust to your liking—some prefer a stronger citrus kick!