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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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A quick and easy one-pot soup combining tender chicken thighs, orzo pasta, and a bright lemon cream broth for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (about 180 grams)
  • 6 cups chicken broth (about 1.4 liters)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • Juice from 2 fresh lemons (about 1/4 cup / 60 ml)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
  • Optional: grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

  1. Chop the onion finely, mince the garlic, zest one lemon, and juice both lemons. Chop the parsley and set aside. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  4. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and stir in the orzo pasta. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender but slightly firm and chicken is fully cooked.
  7. Lower heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Heat gently for 3-5 minutes without boiling to avoid curdling.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Let soup rest off heat for a couple of minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan or extra parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Avoid overcooking orzo to prevent mushiness. Stir occasionally during simmering. Lower heat when adding cream and lemon juice to prevent curdling. If soup thickens too much, stir in broth or water to loosen. Pre-cooked chicken can be used as a shortcut, added near the end to warm through. Freeze without cream and add fresh cream when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy lemon chicken orzo soup, one-pot soup, easy chicken soup, lemon chicken soup, comfort food, quick dinner

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-lemon-chicken-orzo-soup-recipe-easy-one-pot-comfort-meal/