Description
A light yet comforting Mediterranean soup featuring tender chicken breasts and delicate orzo pasta simmered in a bright, lemon-infused broth. This refreshing soup is perfect for a cozy meal and packed with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 2 chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Flavorings
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring broth to boil: Pour the chicken broth into a large pot and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Add and cook chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Add the diced carrot, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup pot.
- Cook orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add lemon juice and season: Stir in the fresh lemon juice for brightness. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and authentic flavor.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach along with orzo for extra nutrients and color.
- Avoid overcooking the orzo as it can become mushy quickly; keep an eye on texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
