A fragrant aroma fills the kitchen as you stir a warm pot of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. This comforting dish is not only quick to prepare but packs a flavor punch that will brighten up any meal. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe works wonders for satisfying hunger with its hearty ingredients.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It’s great for those chilly days when you need something warm and nourishing. You can make it ahead of time, and it stores well for leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of lemon and dill creates a refreshing, vibrant flavor.
- Cream and cream cheese provide a rich, velvety texture.
- Orzo adds a delightful bite, making every spoonful satisfying.
- It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup.
For the Soup Base
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1.1 pounds ground chicken
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
For the Pasta
- 7 ounces orzo
For the Broth and Creaminess
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 5 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup cream (20% fat)
- 3.5 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
For the Finish
- Fresh dill
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Red chili flakes
Optional: Use low-sodium chicken broth for less saltiness.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey for ground chicken
- Quinoa for orzo for a gluten-free option
- Sour cream for cream cheese
- Fresh parsley for dill
How to Make It
Start by following these simple steps.
Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, shallot, and carrot, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Add ground chicken, breaking it up into crumbles. Cook for 5 minutes until browned.
Add Seasonings
Stir in salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and thyme. Then, add the bay leaf and orzo.
Pour the Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Stir in Cream and Cheese
When ready, add lemon juice, cream, and cream cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Finish and Serve
Finish off with fresh dill, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust the lemon juice to your taste for more brightness.
- Use low heat to ensure the orzo cooks evenly without becoming mushy.
- Top with extra dill for a beautiful finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty artisan bread for dipping.
- Enjoy a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve as a starter for a larger family meal.
