Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This comforting soup combines a zesty lemon flavor with tender orzo and shredded chicken, topped off with crispy fried capers. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon juice and chicken broth creates a bright and vibrant flavor profile that will warm your soul.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this soup can be ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal Option: This soup works wonderfully as a main dish or a starter, easily fitting into various meal plans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its light yet creamy texture and unique toppings, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy soups are always comforting, making this dish ideal for cold weather or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Small/medium frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Perfect for simmering the soup evenly without burning, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Small/medium frying pan: Ideal for frying capers until crispy, adding a delightful texture to your soup.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup effortless while ensuring everyone gets an equal portion.

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Ingredients

This creamy lemon chicken soup is going to be your new favorite for soup season! A super flavorful broth with plenty of lemon, orzo, rotisserie chicken, then topped with fried capers. This tastes just like chicken piccata in soup form!

For the Soup

• 4 cans (14.5 oz each) of chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 3/4 cup light cream
• 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Fried Capers

• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Step 1: Prepare Fried Capers

Start by making the fried capers. In a small or medium pan add the olive oil and heat over medium to medium-high heat. Drain the capers and add them to the hot oil, cover the pan with some foil, and cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Once cooked, dry the fried capers on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Set aside to use as the garnish for the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

To a Dutch oven or large pot, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add all of the grated garlic and cook for an additional minute. Afterward, add in the flour while stirring to incorporate all of the butter; cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Cook Broth Base

Pour in the chicken broth along with apple vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and light cream; cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Orzo & Chicken

Remove the lid from your pot and add in uncooked orzo pasta along with shredded rotisserie chicken, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Cook uncovered for around 10 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and top each serving with additional Parmesan cheese, fried capers, and an extra lemon wedge if desired.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right can enhance the experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor and a pop of color.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Package individual servings in airtight containers. This soup can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a great meal prep option.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad featuring mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity complements the soup beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

To make your Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken broth can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.

• Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

• Monitor Orzo Cooking Time: Stir frequently while cooking orzo to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

• Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors dramatically.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Complementing your Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice! Toast slices of bread topped with garlic butter until golden brown.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese makes for a refreshing side.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil add great texture and flavor.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed salad with quinoa, diced vegetables, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup nicely.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze are fun finger foods that pair well with soup.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These colorful peppers filled with rice and vegetables make an attractive and hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Not stirring the orzo often: If you leave the orzo unattended, it may stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir frequently while cooking to prevent this.
• Skipping the fried capers: The fried capers add a unique crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this step; they elevate your soup significantly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Rotisserie chicken is already cooked, so add it towards the end of cooking to keep it tender and juicy.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Every broth varies in saltiness.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Use a good quality chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of light cream and omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can use lime juice as an alternative for acidity. Just remember that lime will change the flavor slightly.

Can I add vegetables to my soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for extra nutrition and color.

How do I know when the orzo is cooked?

The orzo should be al dente when done. Taste it for doneness; it should be firm but not hard.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a comforting dish full of flavor and warmth. Its versatility allows you to customize with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give it a try for your next meal!