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lemon chicken soup with orzo copycat Recipe

Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe

When you find yourself craving a bowl of something cozy yet invigorating, Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo is a standout choice.
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Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 217kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • vegetable chopper

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch or tapioca flour for thickening
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 stalks celery finely chopped
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a mild smoky undertone
  • Juice of 1 to 2 lemons according to your preferred tanginess
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 medium carrots peeled and finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger for subtle warmth
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons ground turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herb blend
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Before anything else, gather all your ingredients. This ensures you're ready to go and makes the cooking process smoother. Everything should be at your fingertips—just like a well-organized kitchen.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables soften. This is where the magic begins—the foundation of your soup!

Step 3: Introduce Garlic and Ginger

  • Once your veggies are tender, introduce the crushed garlic and minced ginger to the pot. Cook for an additional minute until aromatic. This step adds a fragrant base that’s hard to resist.

Step 4: Mix in Chicken and Broth

  • Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the chicken infuses its rich flavor into the broth.

Step 5: Incorporate the Spices

  • Stir in the smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives the soup a delightful color. Continue simmering for about 10 minutes; let those flavors meld.

Step 6: Cook the Orzo

  • Once the broth is fragrant and delicious, stir in the uncooked orzo. Allow it to cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Add Lemon Juice

  • When the orzo is cooked to your preference, squeeze in the lemon juice. Start with one lemon, taste, and add more if you desire a more pronounced zing. This touch brightens the soup significantly and adds that refreshing kick.

Step 8: Thicken the Soup

  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the pot while stirring continuously until the soup reaches your desired thickness.

Step 9: Final Touches

  • Before serving, stir in the unsalted butter and fresh parsley. These elements add a final flavor boost and a pop of color.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve it warm with your crusty bread or a side salad for a full meal.

Notes

Opt for Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves tons of time and adds incredible flavor. You might want to keep an extra one in your fridge for a quick meal.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. Too much time can leave it mushy, and nobody likes that in their soup!
Adjust the Tartness: Lemon juice is key! Start with one lemon, taste, and adjust based on your preference for tartness.
Store in the Right Containers: If you're prepping meals ahead, store the soup in airtight containers. This keeps it fresh and easy to heat up later.
Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs like thyme or dill. They can elevate the flavor profile even more!
Keyword: Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo Recipe