Print

Best 30-Minute Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup Recipe (High-Protein Comfort)

Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup with lemon slices and herbs in white bowl
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A cozy, protein-packed chicken lemon orzo soup that’s bright, hearty, and ready in just 30 minutes. Tender shredded chicken, orzo, carrots, and fresh lemon come together for a satisfying one-pot meal that feels like comfort in a bowl—perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, sliced into thin rounds

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or meal-prepped)

  • ¾ cup uncooked orzo

  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

  • 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

  • A handful of baby spinach

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt for creaminess

  • Extra lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and turn slightly golden.

2. Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

3. Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Scrape any browned bits from the pot for added flavor.

4. Add Chicken and Orzo
Add shredded chicken, orzo, and thyme (or oregano). Stir and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the soup slightly thickens.

5. Add Lemon and Seasoning
Stir in lemon juice and zest. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust lemon flavor to preference.

 

6. Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with rice or gluten-free small pasta.

  • Meal Prep Tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days; add a splash of broth when reheating.

  • Extra Creaminess: Stir in Greek yogurt or a touch of cream before serving.

 

  • Storage: Freeze without orzo for best texture; add fresh orzo when reheating.

Find it online: https://www.tastysavvy.com/30-minute-chicken-lemon-orzo-soup/