Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and gatherings alike! With a bright, tangy flavor profile that captures the essence of chicken piccata in a comforting soup form, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. The smooth broth, tender orzo, and crispy fried capers create a delightful combination that suits any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The zesty lemon juice and creamy broth create an unforgettable taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Perfectly creamy and hearty, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare in advance and store for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Medium pan
• Mixing spoon
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Essential for simmering soups evenly and retaining heat.
• Medium pan: Perfect for frying capers without overcrowding them.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.

Ingredients

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

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 foil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once done, place the fried capers on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Set aside as garnish.

Step 2: Start Cooking the Soup Base

1. In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in the grated garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add flour to incorporate it into the mixture; cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Pour in chicken broth and white apple vinegar.
2. Season with salt and black pepper; bring to a boil.
3. Lower heat to let it simmer while covered for about 15 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and light cream until combined.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Remove lid; add uncooked orzo pasta, shredded chicken, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve Your Delicious Soup

1. Once pasta is cooked through, remove from heat.
2. Ladle soup into bowls; top with more Parmesan cheese, fried capers, and an extra lemon wedge.

Enjoy your delightful Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This creamy lemon chicken orzo soup is not only delicious but also very versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enhance the dining experience with a few simple additions that complement the soup beautifully.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a sprig of thyme for an aromatic touch that pairs well with the flavors.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping in the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread as a flavorful side that enhances the overall meal experience.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the creamy soup well.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, making it both a dish and part of the meal.

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 Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds incredible flavor to your soup.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring the orzo while it cooks prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Adjust Lemon Juice: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference; more lemon can enhance brightness.
• Check Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to get that perfect balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Enhance your meal by pairing your creamy lemon chicken orzo soup with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: These buttery knots are perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds nutrients and colors to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing balance alongside the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs adds texture and earthiness to your plate.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies offer a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this creamy lemon chicken orzo soup, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the frying of capers: Fried capers add a delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the soup’s taste.
• Overcooking the orzo: Orzo can become mushy if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the cooking time and stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Not seasoning properly: Proper seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or broth can lower the cooking temperature. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Ignoring the scraping process: The orzo can stick to the bottom of the pot. Be diligent in scraping up any stuck pasta while cooking for an even texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer the soup into an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about creamy lemon chicken orzo soup that may help you make this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of pasta in Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

You can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe if you prefer.

How do I make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This creamy lemon chicken orzo soup is a comforting dish perfect for any season. Its bright flavors and creamy texture make it very appealing. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth today!

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, a delightful dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon and the rich flavors of chicken. This soup is perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional chicken soup by infusing it with creamy goodness and a hint of citrus. With tender orzo pasta and crispy fried capers atop, each spoonful is a burst of flavor that promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cans chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 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
• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a medium pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add drained capers and cover with foil; fry for about 5 minutes until crispy. Set aside.
2. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced shallots and cook until soft, then stir in garlic and flour.
3. Pour in chicken broth and apple vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and light cream until well combined.
5. Add uncooked orzo, shredded chicken, lemon zest, and lemon juice; cook uncovered for 10 minutes while stirring frequently.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fried capers and extra lemon wedges.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 45mg