Chicken Orzo Soup

This comforting Chicken Orzo Soup is a lighter, flavorful take on classic chicken noodle soup, featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy meal!

---

Did You Know?
Orzo, though pasta, resembles rice in texture and shape, making it a perfect addition to light soups. Its small size allows it to absorb the broth's flavor, creating a satisfying bite without overpowering the other ingredients.

---

Yield
Approximately 6 servings

---

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced thinly
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/2 cup orzo pasta
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh baby spinach or kale, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

---

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

---

Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken thighs or breasts. Season with thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

---

Shred the Chicken and Cook the Orzo
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Stir in the orzo pasta and continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

---

Add the Greens and Lemon Juice
Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt for a few minutes. Add the lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.

---

Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 220, Protein: 18g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 3g, Net Carbohydrates: 17g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 1.5g, Cholesterol: 50mg, Sodium: 500mg, Sugars: 4g

---

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Choose Chicken Thighs for Flavor: Thighs add richness to the broth and stay tender. For a lighter option, use chicken breasts.
2. Make It Heartier: Add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Use Leftover Chicken: If you have pre-cooked chicken, add it toward the end to save time.
4. Try Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a unique flavor.
5. Add Herbs Last: For a fresher taste, add fresh herbs just before serving.
6. Freeze for Later: Make a big batch and freeze in portions. Add fresh greens after reheating.
7. Zest Before Juicing: Use lemon zest for extra citrus flavor without added liquid.
8. Avoid Overcooking Orzo: Add it toward the end, as it can become mushy if left too long.
9. Low-Sodium Broth: Always choose low-sodium broth to control the soup's saltiness.
10. Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of toasted bread pairs perfectly, adding crunch and heartiness to the meal.

---

Let’s Learn About the Flavor Boosting Ingredients
Lemon juice adds brightness to the soup, balancing the rich chicken broth with a hint of acidity. The orzo absorbs the savory flavors, creating a perfect texture that complements the tender chicken and vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying bowl.