Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach: The Ultimate Comfort Food

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There are few things as comforting as a bowl of hot, nourishing soup, especially when it’s made with wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling both satisfied and energized. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach is one of those meals that hits the spot every time. Imagine tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a burst of tangy lemon, all enveloped in a savory broth. It’s light yet hearty, healthy yet full of flavor—exactly what you need for a cozy meal that never gets old.

Whether you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner, a meal prep option for the week, or just something comforting after a long day, this soup ticks all the boxes. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through making this easy, nutritious soup that’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Comforting and Nourishing

This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach offers the best of both worlds: comfort and nourishment. The heartiness of the chicken, the delicate texture of orzo pasta, and the bright, tangy flavor of lemon come together in a bowl that not only tastes amazing but makes you feel good too. It’s perfect for those days when you want something light yet satisfying. And with fresh spinach, you’re adding a great dose of vitamins and minerals, giving the soup a health boost.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s ideal for:

• Busy Weeknights: You can whip it up in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect meal for when you’re short on time.
• Meal Prep: The soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.
• Family Dinners: Whether you’re cooking for one or the whole family, this soup will feed up to six people, making it a great option for gatherings.

Easy to Make

One of the reasons this recipe stands out is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull it off—just follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

To create this flavorful soup, you’ll need some simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Extra virgin olive oil	2 tablespoons
Large onion, finely chopped	1
Garlic cloves, minced	3
Chicken broth	8 cups
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2 (about 1 lb.)
Uncooked orzo pasta	1 cup
Large eggs	3
Lemons (juice and zest)	3
Fresh spinach, roughly chopped	2 cups
Salt and freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)	As needed
Lemon slices (for garnish)	As needed

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This healthy fat adds richness to the soup and helps with cooking the onions and garlic. Plus, it’s packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Chicken: Tender chicken breasts provide a lean protein source that’s filling and satisfying.
• Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is the perfect addition to the soup. It absorbs the broth well, adding texture without overwhelming the dish.
• Lemon: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a tangy kick that lifts the entire dish, balancing the richness of the chicken and olive oil.
• Spinach: This leafy green is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, adding a nutritious element to the soup while giving it a beautiful pop of green.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Making this soup is easy and straightforward. Here’s how you can prepare it, step by step:

1. Prepare the Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. The aroma of the onions cooking in olive oil is the first sign that this soup will be incredible.

Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—this step is essential for releasing its fragrance and enhancing the soup’s flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Pour in all 8 cups, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s fully cooked through and tender.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. When cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside for later.

3. Cook the Orzo

Bring the broth back to a boil, and then add the uncooked orzo pasta. Stir occasionally and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.

4. Make the Egg-Lemon Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and the juice of 3 lemons. The eggs will give the soup a creamy texture, and the lemon juice will add the signature tangy flavor. Once the egg-lemon mixture is well combined, it’s time to temper the eggs.

To do this, slowly ladle a bit of hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This gradual addition of hot liquid helps prevent the eggs from scrambling. Repeat with 1-2 more ladles of broth until the egg mixture is warmed up.

Once the egg mixture is tempered, slowly pour it back into the pot with the rest of the soup, stirring gently to combine.

5. Add the Final Ingredients

At this point, add the shredded chicken, lemon zest, and roughly chopped spinach to the pot. Let everything cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Stir occasionally to make sure all ingredients are well distributed.

6. Season to Taste

Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The seasoning is key to balancing all the flavors, so don’t skip this step.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is finished, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation. The bright green parsley and vibrant lemon slices add a fresh touch to the comforting soup.

Nutrition Breakdown: Healthy Comfort in Every Bowl

Here’s what you’re getting in every satisfying bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach:

• Calories per Serving: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

This soup provides a balanced meal, with a good amount of protein from the chicken, fiber from the spinach, and healthy fats from the olive oil. It’s perfect for those who are looking to enjoy a filling yet nutritious meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

1. Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, or if you want to make a change, there are plenty of substitutions you can try:

• Swap the chicken: If you prefer turkey, that works just as well in this recipe. For a vegetarian version, you can use tofu or a plant-based protein.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to throw in some carrots or celery for extra flavor and crunch. These vegetables also boost the nutritional value.
• Use a different pasta: If you don’t have orzo, other small pasta shapes, like ditalini or even small shells, work well.

2. Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this soup is that it’s ideal for meal prep. Make a batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and taste even better the next day.

If you’d like to freeze it, the soup freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

3. Customizing the Flavor

Want to make the soup a little more exciting? Try:

• Adding heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will bring a little kick to the soup.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or oregano can add an earthy note that complements the lemony flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a double batch and save some for later.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, try other small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or rotini.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, cook the chicken in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Add the other ingredients and follow the same steps to finish the soup on the stove.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Orzo is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta for the orzo to make this soup gluten-free.

How do I store leftover Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion: A Soup for All Seasons

Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a crisp fall afternoon, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach is the perfect dish to warm you up and nourish your body. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and full of nutritious ingredients that you’ll feel good about serving to your family.

Now that you’ve learned how to make this delicious soup, it’s time to give it a try! Gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this satisfying meal. And remember, this recipe is versatile—experiment with your own twist and share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!

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