Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill

There’s nothing like a warm, creamy bowl of soup to wrap you up in comfort — especially one brimming with tender chicken, silky orzo, and the bright pop of fresh dill. This Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill is cozy yet refreshing, rich yet light, and oh-so-satisfying with every spoonful. Think chicken pot pie meets Greek avgolemono — a bowl full of heart, heritage, and flavor.

Behind the Recipe

This soup was inspired by a chilly afternoon when I wanted something soothing but not too heavy. I had leftover rotisserie chicken, a bunch of dill I didn’t want to waste, and orzo sitting in the pantry. One quick simmer later, the kitchen smelled like comfort and the first taste sealed it — this soup became an instant favorite. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Creamy chicken soups are beloved across cultures, but this one nods to Mediterranean influences — especially the Greek love of dill and lemon with chicken and grains. Orzo, the rice-shaped pasta, is commonly used in soups across Europe and the Middle East. This dish blends those traditions into a cozy, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill

This soup has soul and structure — and so many reasons to love it.

Versatile: A perfect year-round soup — hearty for winter, fresh enough for spring.

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients for a big flavor payoff.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in just one pot, in under 40 minutes.

Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it dairy-free.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, herby, and familiar — everyone loves it.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch or a quick dinner.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

These little touches will elevate your soup from good to gourmet.

• Sauté the aromatics until truly soft — this deepens the flavor.
• Use low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning.
• Cook the orzo separately if you plan to store leftovers — it prevents sogginess.
• Stir in the cream at the end to avoid curdling and keep the soup silky.
• Don’t skip the dill — it adds a fresh, lemony pop that balances the richness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much — just your go-to soup essentials.

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking everything in one cozy vessel.

Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: To prep your veggies and herbs.

Ladle: For easy serving and portioning.

Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without damaging your pot.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters in seasoning and texture.

Ingredients in Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill

Each ingredient contributes to the soup’s perfect balance of richness and brightness.

1. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons — for sautéing the veggies and infusing flavor.
2. Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped — brings sweetness and depth.
3. Carrots: 2 large, diced — add color, texture, and a hint of natural sweetness.
4. Celery: 2 stalks, chopped — classic soup base for savory balance.
5. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced — aromatic and essential for depth.
6. All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons — creates a light roux to thicken the broth.
7. Chicken Broth: 6 cups — forms the flavorful base of the soup.
8. Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded — tender protein that makes it hearty.
9. Orzo Pasta: ¾ cup — rice-shaped pasta that adds body without heaviness.
10. Heavy Cream: ½ cup — makes the broth rich and velvety.
11. Fresh Dill: ¼ cup, finely chopped — fresh and herbal, the star accent.
12. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons — brightens the whole dish.
13. Salt and Pepper: To taste — seasoning brings it all together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Tweak it as needed and keep the flavor flowing.

Olive Oil: Use butter for extra richness.

Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.

Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth for a meatless base.

Cooked Chicken: Use turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein.

Orzo Pasta: Rice or small pasta like ditalini work too.

Ingredient Spotlight

Fresh Dill: This delicate herb adds a unique brightness that cuts through the creaminess and makes every bite pop.

Orzo Pasta: Its petite size and tender bite make it ideal for soups, offering body without overpowering the spoon.

Instructions for Making Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill

Let’s walk through the comforting, satisfying process step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine and remove lumps.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Add shredded chicken and orzo. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, dill, and lemon juice. Simmer for 3–4 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let rest for a couple minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld and soup to thicken slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra dill or a lemon wedge if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This soup nails the balance between velvety broth and gentle chew. The orzo thickens the soup naturally, while the cream gives it body without being too heavy. Fresh dill and lemon juice lift every spoonful, offering a clean, bright contrast to the richness of the base.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Cook orzo separately if planning to freeze or refrigerate leftovers.
• Add a dash of nutmeg for an earthy background note.
• Use leftover roasted chicken or even poached thighs for the meat.
• Warm the cream slightly before adding to prevent splitting.

What to Avoid

• Overcooking the orzo — it should be tender but not mushy.
• Adding cream too early — it can separate if boiled.
• Using dried dill — it won’t give the same fresh flavor punch.
• Skipping lemon — it’s the key to balancing the richness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 390

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Freeze in individual containers (without orzo if possible) for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill

Serve with warm crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese for ultimate comfort. Garnish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or a lemon wedge for a fresh finish.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Soup Bowls with Rice: Serve over leftover rice or grains for a heartier meal.
• Pot Pie Shortcut: Pour into a pie dish, top with puff pastry, and bake for a quick chicken pot pie.
• Creamy Pasta Bake: Mix with cooked pasta and top with cheese for a baked twist.

Additional Tips

• Add baby spinach or kale for extra greens.
• A swirl of Greek yogurt adds tang and protein.
• Stir in frozen peas or corn at the end for color and sweetness.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in a white bowl with a dill sprig, lemon twist, and crackled pepper on top. Pair with herbed focaccia or garlic knots and set the table with linen napkins — cozy and elegant in one.

Variations to Try

• Lemon Chicken Rice Soup: Use rice and extra lemon for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and olive oil only.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for white beans and use veggie broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Herb Blend: Try parsley and thyme alongside or instead of dill.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this soup dairy-free?

A1: Yes, use coconut cream or a plant-based creamer in place of heavy cream.

Q2: Can I cook the orzo separately?

A2: Definitely — it helps prevent overcooked pasta in leftovers.

Q3: What’s the best chicken to use?

A3: Rotisserie or cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work best.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze without the orzo for best texture.

Q5: Can I freeze this soup?

A5: Yes, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked orzo when reheating.

Q6: Is it gluten-free?

A6: Not with orzo, but you can substitute with rice or gluten-free pasta.

Q7: Can I use dried dill?

A7: Fresh dill is strongly recommended, but use 1 teaspoon dried if needed.

Q8: Can I make it thicker?

A8: Add more flour during the roux stage or let it simmer longer uncovered.

Q9: What if I don’t have lemon?

A9: A splash of white wine vinegar can provide the needed brightness.

Q10: What broth is best?

A10: Low-sodium chicken broth allows better control over final seasoning.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill is a bowl of nourishment that feels like a hug. With its blend of textures, rich but light broth, and that fresh dill sparkle, it’s a meal that comforts and revives — the perfect companion for chilly nights, cozy lunches, or a soothing pick-me-up any time of year.

Watch How to Make Creamy Chicken and Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill