Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo
Introduction
Lemon chicken soup with orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, tangy lemon, and hearty orzo pasta. This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you are craving a light and nourishing meal. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and lemon creates a refreshing and satisfying flavor that will surely warm your soul.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 lemons, juiced and zested
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
3. Add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Add the cooked orzo, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the soup. Stir well and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
7. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the lemon chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added freshness.
Cooking Time and Serving Size:
This lemon chicken soup with orzo takes approximately 35 minutes to cook. It yields about 4 servings, depending on the desired portion size. Adjust the recipe accordingly if you need more or fewer servings.
Enjoy this delightful lemon chicken soup with orzo as a light lunch or dinner option. The bright flavors of lemon combined with the tender chicken and orzo will surely satisfy your taste buds.