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Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Spinach

A warm and flavorful soup featuring lemon, chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh spinach, perfect for busy days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion, chopped adds flavor and aromatic base
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced adds aroma and flavor
  • 4 cups chicken broth can use homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup water to adjust consistency
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie works great
  • 1 cup orzo pasta can substitute with quinoa or rice
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped can substitute with kale
  • 1 each lemon, juice and zest for brightness and flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper to season
  • to taste fresh parsley for garnish optional for presentation

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Toss in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the shredded chicken and orzo pasta to the pot. Keep it bubbling for about 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.
  6. Toss in the chopped spinach, juice, and zest of your lemon. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds incredible flavor. Soup is freezer-friendly, but note that the orzo may soak up some broth during storage.