Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486895H28M7S
Total time: PT-486895H28M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups chopped celery; 2 cups chopped carrots; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning; 10 cups chicken broth (plus up to 2 more cups as needed); 16 ounces orzo, uncooked; 4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended); 2 cups heavy cream; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or up to 1/4 cup to taste); Optional garnish: fresh parsley

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness combining hearty chicken, tender vegetables, creamy broth, and a bright lemony finish. It’s a balanced meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is rich and creamy but with a refreshing citrus lift from lemon juice. It’s filling yet light, perfect for both cold days and any time you crave something wholesome. Using rotisserie chicken makes it quick and convenient, while the orzo gives it a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chopped celery
2 cups chopped carrots
1 yellow onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
10 cups chicken broth (plus up to 2 more cups as needed)
16 ounces orzo, uncooked
4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
2 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice (or up to 1/4 cup to taste)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Directions

Sauté The Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium to medium-high heat. Once hot and fragrant, add the chopped celery, carrots, onion, poultry seasoning, and salt. Sauté for 5–10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Add Broth, Orzo, And Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth. Add orzo and shredded chicken. Stir and ensure all ingredients are submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–14 minutes, until orzo is al dente.
Stir In Cream And Lemon Juice
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice while stirring constantly. Allow the soup to simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Adjust Consistency And Flavor
If needed, stir in extra broth to thin or more lemon juice for added brightness. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and serve hot for a satisfying, warming meal.

Servings And Timing

Serves: 8–10
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version
Swap orzo with rice or small pasta shapes like ditalini
Add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of simmering for added greens
Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra richness
Use lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus aroma

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The orzo will continue to absorb liquid, so add more broth when reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or any cooked shredded chicken works perfectly.

Can I freeze this soup?

It can be frozen, but the orzo may become overly soft. Consider freezing without the orzo and adding it fresh when reheating.

What is orzo?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a tender bite to soups.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with cooked rice or quinoa.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms can be added during the simmering stage.

How do I keep the soup from getting too thick?

Add extra broth as needed when reheating, or reduce the amount of orzo slightly during cooking.

What if I don’t have poultry seasoning?

Use a mix of dried thyme, sage, rosemary, and marjoram.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Yes—add all ingredients except cream and lemon juice, cook on low 6–7 hours, then stir in cream and lemon juice at the end.

Does the lemon overpower the flavor?

Not at all. It adds brightness and balances the richness. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a perfect blend of comfort and freshness. Its rich base, hearty ingredients, and citrus finish make it an ideal meal any time of year. Whether you need a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this soup is sure to satisfy with every spoonful.

Ezabella