Orzo Soup – A Family Favorite

This comforting Orzo Soup is a warm, hearty, and delicious family favorite! Made with tender chicken, tiny pasta, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, every spoonful is full of goodness. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.

2. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Orzo: Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Chicken: Stir in shredded chicken, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for another 3–4 minutes until heated through.

6. Add Spinach: Mix in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

7. Finish the Soup: Add lemon juice, fresh parsley, and heavy cream if desired. Stir well.

8. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Questions & Answers (Q/A)

Q: What is orzo?
A: Orzo is a small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a delicious texture to soups.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! However, orzo absorbs broth as it sits, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.

Q: Can I freeze Orzo Soup?
A: Yes, but for the best texture, freeze the soup without the orzo and add freshly cooked pasta when serving.

Q: Can I make it without cream?
A: Of course! The soup is delicious and flavorful even without cream.

Q: What can I serve with Orzo Soup?
A: Garlic bread, dinner rolls, crackers, or a fresh green salad make wonderful sides.

Q: How long does it last in the refrigerator?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Helpful Tips

• Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking.

• Add extra broth if the soup becomes too thick.

• Fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors.

• Add kale or zucchini for extra vegetables.

• Cook orzo separately if you plan to store leftovers.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 23g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fat: 11g

• Fiber: 3g