A cozy, creamy chicken soup enriched with orzo, fresh dill, and lemon, offering a perfect balance of comfort and brightness in every spoonful.
Author:Ava
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Carrots: 2 large, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
Chicken Broth: 6 cups
Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded
Orzo Pasta: ¾ cup
Heavy Cream: ½ cup
Fresh Dill: ¼ cup, finely chopped
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment: Set a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil.
Combine Ingredients: Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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.
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.
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.
Finishing Touches: Let rest for a couple minutes off heat to allow flavors to meld and soup to thicken slightly.
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.
Notes
Cook orzo separately if planning to store or freeze for better texture.
Use fresh dill and lemon for a bright, balanced flavor.
Warm the cream slightly before adding to avoid curdling.
Add spinach or peas at the end for extra color and nutrition.