Introduction
Discover a hearty and refreshing chicken orzo soup that combines the warmth of homemade broth with the tanginess of fresh lemon. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition. The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs transforms the chicken and orzo into a delightful meal that warms both the body and soul.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 carrots, peeled and diced
Half of an onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8–10 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole wheat orzo
3 cups cooked chicken (e.g., shredded rotisserie chicken)
3 eggs
Juice of 3–4 lemons (about 1/2 cup)
A handful of fresh spinach
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh dill, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy this chicken orzo soup as a comforting meal any day of the week. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Base
Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, followed by the diced carrots, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and tender, about 10 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the orzo and cook for a few minutes until it begins to soften. Stir in the cooked chicken and remove the pot from heat.
Egg Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice. To prevent the eggs from scrambling, slowly add a scoop of the hot soup into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. Gradually incorporate the warmed egg mixture back into the soup pot, stirring constantly, until the broth becomes smooth and creamy.
Final Touches
Stir in the fresh spinach, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh dill. Adjust the seasonings to taste before serving.
Notes
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery or zucchini for additional flavors and nutrients.
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth or increase the orzo.
Fresh Herbs
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme along with the dill.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a pot and add diced carrots, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are fragrant and tender, stirring regularly to avoid burning the garlic.
Simmering Broth
Add chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables and bring to a simmer. This helps to infuse the flavors from the vegetables into the broth.
Cooking Orzo
Incorporate the orzo into the simmering broth and cook until it begins to soften. This ensures that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the broth.
Incorporating Egg Mixture
Whisk together eggs and lemon juice in a bowl. Slowly mix in hot soup to temper the eggs, preventing them from scrambling. Stir the tempered egg mixture back into the pot for a creamy texture.
Final Seasoning
Add fresh spinach, salt, black pepper, and dill at the end of cooking. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the overall flavor just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly to ensure they are tender.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
How can I store the leftover soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the eggs and spinach. After thawing, you can add these ingredients when reheating.
What can I use instead of fresh dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use dried dill, though the flavor will be less intense. Alternatively, try using fresh parsley or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This comforting chicken orzo soup not only warms the soul but also provides a nutritious and hearty meal. The combination of lemony flavor, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables makes it a delightful dish that is easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or shared with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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