Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. With its rich broth and zesty lemon flavor, this soup brings comfort and warmth to any occasion. The combination of tender orzo pasta and shredded chicken creates a satisfying dish that tastes just like chicken piccata in soup form. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual lunch, this soup will surely impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Zesty: The fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the flavors, making each spoonful refreshing.
• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for lunch throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy texture and comforting taste, making it a hit with all ages.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding more veggies or herbs to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Small to medium pan
• Measuring cups
• Grater
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly; retains heat well for consistent cooking.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredients, which is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.
• Grater: Helps to finely shred garlic and cheese quickly, enhancing the texture of your soup.

Ingredients

This creamy lemon chicken soup is going to be your new favorite for soup season! A super flavorful broth with plenty of lemon, orzo, rotisserie chicken, then topped with fried capers. This tastes just like chicken piccata in soup form!

For the Soup

• 4 cans (14.5 oz cans) of chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 3/4 cup light cream
• 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Fried Capers

• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Fried Capers

Start by making the fried capers.
1. In a small or medium pan add the olive oil and heat over medium to medium-high heat.
2. Drain the capers and add them to the hot oil.
3. Cover the pan with some foil and cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Dry the fried capers on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Set aside as a garnish.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Next, prepare the base of your soup.
1. In a dutch oven or large pot, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in all of the grated garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add two tablespoons of flour; stir to incorporate into the butter mixture and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Create the Broth

Now it’s time to build that delicious broth!
1. Pour in the chicken broth along with white apple vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and light cream; mix until combined.

Step 4: Cook Orzo Pasta

Add your main ingredients to finish off this delightful soup!
1. Remove lid from pot and add uncooked orzo pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve

Finally, serve up your delicious creation!
1. Once noodles are cooked through, remove from heat.
2. Ladle soup into bowls; top with more Parmesan cheese, fried capers, and an extra lemon wedge if desired.

Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Serving Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup can elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of this delicious soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill on top for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Include Fried Capers as a Topping

• The fried capers add a delightful crunch and enhance the taste, making each spoonful more exciting.

Offer Extra Lemon Wedges

• Providing extra lemon wedges allows guests to customize the soup’s tanginess to their liking.

Serve in Unique Bowls

• Presenting the soup in colorful or rustic bowls adds an inviting touch to your table setting.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutritional value. Always opt for high-quality chicken broth for the best results.

• Monitor Orzo Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks, stirring often to prevent sticking to the pot. This ensures even texture throughout.

• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add additional broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or more lemon juice can brighten up the flavors significantly.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess without separating.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and zest that complements the creamy soup well.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the soup.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

5. Roasted Potatoes: Herb-roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with any soup.

6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes on skewers make for a fun appetizer that complements Italian flavors.

7. Spinach Feta Pastries: These flaky pastries bring a savory element that nicely contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup.

8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a satisfying accompaniment to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup perfect, avoid these common errors.

• Ignoring the orzo cooking time – Overcooking the orzo can lead to a mushy texture. Stir frequently and monitor the cooking time closely.
• Not using enough seasoning – Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the fried capers – Fried capers add a delightful crunch. Don’t skip this step; they elevate the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold cream or broth can lower the soup’s temperature. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature for a smoother blend.
• Not scraping the bottom of the pot – Orzo can stick, leading to burnt bits. Stir often and scrape the bottom to prevent this issue.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container.
• The soup is best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe pot, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup so special?

This soup combines rich flavors with a creamy texture and zesty lemon, creating a comforting dish that’s reminiscent of chicken piccata.

Can I customize the ingredients in Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas, or swap chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based alternatives for cream and cheese.

Can I prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day ahead; just store it properly and reheat before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need comfort food. Experiment with different herbs or veggies to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its rich, savory broth infused with zesty lemon and tender orzo pasta, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. The combination of shredded rotisserie chicken and fresh ingredients creates a satisfying meal reminiscent of chicken piccata, but in soup form. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep, it allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or herbs. This family-friendly recipe will impress everyone at the table while providing a nourishing experience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cans (14.5 oz) chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 3/4 cup light cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare fried capers by heating olive oil in a pan, adding drained capers, covering with foil, and cooking for 5 minutes. Set aside.
2. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat; add shallots and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and flour; mix well.
3. Pour in chicken broth and white apple vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and light cream; stir until combined.
5. Add orzo, shredded chicken, lemon zest, and lemon juice; cook uncovered for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fried capers and extra lemon wedges if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg