Can you freeze lemon chicken orzo soup?

Yes, but for best results, freeze it without the orzo. Cook the base (chicken, broth, lemon, vegetables), cool it, and freeze in airtight containers. When reheating, cook fresh orzo separately and add it in to maintain the right texture. This way, your soup stays flavorful and avoids becoming mushy.

Traditional orzo is not gluten-free because it’s made from semolina flour (a type of wheat). However, gluten-free versions made from rice, corn, or quinoa are available. If you're following a gluten-free diet, make sure the packaging specifically states “gluten-free.”

What can I use instead of orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, try short pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or small elbow macaroni. For gluten-free or low-carb alternatives, cooked quinoa, cauliflower rice, or lentils also work well. These substitutions maintain the soup's body while offering different nutritional benefits.

How do I thicken lemon chicken orzo soup?

To thicken the soup, try one of these methods: 1) simmer it a little longer to reduce the liquid naturally, 2) stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water), or 3) add a whisked egg yolk tempered with broth for a creamier Greek-style consistency. Avoid adding flour directly, as it can clump without a proper roux base.

Can I make lemon chicken orzo soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Add all ingredients except orzo, lemon juice, and spinach to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Shred the chicken, stir in cooked orzo and lemon juice during the last 30 minutes, then add spinach just before serving. This method builds deep flavor with minimal effort.

What herbs go best with lemon chicken orzo soup?

Dill and parsley are classic, but thyme, rosemary, and even a bit of basil can work beautifully. Dill enhances the lemon’s brightness, while thyme adds an earthy note. Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor, or stir in a teaspoon of dried herbs early in the cooking process.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup – 5-Star Comfort Meal You’ll Crave

Name: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup dry orzo pasta; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup baby spinach (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Description

A comforting and flavorful lemon chicken orzo soup made with simple ingredients. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or anytime you need a warm bowl of love.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for lemon chicken orzo soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup dry orzo pasta
Juice of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Soup simmering on the stove with orzo and chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and add chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until chicken is done (about 15–20 mins).
Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to the pot.
Stir in orzo pasta. Simmer until orzo is al dente (8–10 mins).
Stir in lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Add spinach and stir until wilted.
Serve hot with parsley garnish and optional Parmesan.

Notes

To freeze: make the soup without the orzo and add fresh when reheating.

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Add more lemon juice if you love extra tang.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 285 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 65mg