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!