Yield

6–8 servings

Preparation Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 35 minutes
• Total: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Pour in chicken broth.
2. Add thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
3. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add Chicken

1. Stir in shredded chicken.
2. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Orzo

1. Add uncooked orzo pasta.
2. Simmer 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Finish

1. Remove bay leaf.
2. Stir in parsley and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve hot.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1 of 8 servings)

Values are approximate and vary by ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Protein Rich

Chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and satiety.

Comfort Food

Warm broth may help with hydration and comfort during cold weather.

Vegetable Nutrients

Carrots and celery contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Easily Digestible

Orzo and broth create a gentle meal suitable for many people recovering from illness.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Rotisserie chicken works very well and saves time.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but the orzo may become soft after thawing. For best results, freeze without pasta and add fresh cooked orzo when reheating.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Q4: How long does it last in the refrigerator?

Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Q5: Can I use raw chicken?

Yes.
Add:

• 1½ pounds boneless chicken breast or thighs
• Simmer 20–25 minutes
• Remove, shred, and return to the soup.

Q6: Why is my soup too thick?

Orzo absorbs liquid during storage. Add extra broth when reheating.

Q7: Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely.
Good additions include:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Peas
• Corn
• Zucchini
• Mushrooms

Q8: Can I make it creamy?

Yes. Stir in:

• ½ cup heavy cream, or
• ¾ cup evaporated milk

during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Q9: What herbs pair well with chicken soup?

• Parsley
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Dill
• Oregano
• Sage

Q10: What can I serve with it?

• Crusty bread
• Garlic bread
• Dinner rolls
• Side salad
• Grilled cheese sandwich

Allergy Information

Contains:

• Gluten (orzo pasta)
• Possible celery allergy concerns

Free From:

• Nuts
• Peanuts
• Shellfish
• Soy (if broth is soy-free)

Always check ingredient labels if preparing for someone with food allergies.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator

• Store up to 4 days.

Freezer

• Store up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Add extra broth if needed.