Craving a bowl of pure sunshine? This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is absolutely dreamy-think tender chicken, delicate orzo, and a vibrant, lemony broth that's as cozy as it is refreshing.

Every spoonful is bursting with bright citrus, soothing herbs, and the kind of soul-warming comfort you just can't get from a can. What makes this soup truly special is how easy it is-just one pot, minimal prep, and you've got a hearty, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

It's the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or anytime you need a pick-me-up. Inspired by classic Greek flavors and a long-time family favorite, this soup will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation!

A steaming bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup topped with fresh parsley and lemon slices

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright, fresh flavors - The lemony broth is both comforting and lively, with the perfect balance of tang and savory.
One-pot convenience - Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in a single pot.
Quick and easy - Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Hearty and satisfying - Protein-packed chicken and silky orzo make this soup a complete meal.

Key Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is the star protein here, providing lean, tender bites throughout the soup. For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut or substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Orzo Pasta

Orzo is a tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the lemony broth and gives the soup a silky, satisfying texture. Be sure to add it near the end so it doesn't overcook. If you can't find orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice will work, although the texture will change slightly.

Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest

Lemon is what sets this soup apart, giving it a zippy, refreshing punch. Use both the juice and zest from fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference! If you like extra tang, add a bit more zest.

Carrots, Celery, and Onion

This classic trio forms the soup's savory backbone, adding natural sweetness and flavor depth. Dice them evenly for a perfect bite in every spoonful. Feel free to swap in other veggies like spinach or kale near the end for extra greens.

Fresh Dill and Parsley

Chopped fresh dill and parsley finish off the soup with a herbal lift that pairs beautifully with the citrusy broth. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried work too-just use about one-third of the amount.

Instructions for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the veggies start to soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Garlic and Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chicken pieces, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the chicken turns white on the outside (it doesn't need to be fully cooked yet).

Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. This melds the flavors and finishes cooking the chicken.

Add Orzo and Flavorings

Stir in the orzo, lemon zest, and half the dill. Continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is just tender. If you like a slightly thicker soup, let it simmer a minute or two longer.

Finish with Lemon and Herbs

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon juice, remaining dill, and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For extra brightness, add a little more lemon juice.

Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately while it's piping hot!

Recipe Variations

Make It Creamy

For an extra comforting touch, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half just before serving. This gives the broth a silky richness that pairs perfectly with the lemon.

Veggie-Loaded Version

Bulk up the soup with extra vegetables like baby spinach, chopped kale, or green peas. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and tender.

Gluten-Free Swap

Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or cooked rice for a gluten-free version that doesn't sacrifice heartiness or flavor.

Use Rotisserie Chicken

Short on time? Simply shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it in during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This shortcut is perfect for busy weeknights.

Amp Up the Citrus

Love an even zestier kick? Add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or a few slices of preserved lemon for bold, tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with a warm hunk of crusty bread or a side of garlicky pita chips for dipping. A crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing companion. Garnish each bowl with extra fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon for a beautiful, flavorful finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The orzo will continue to absorb broth, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the soup (preferably without the orzo) for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add freshly cooked orzo if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the soup even juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to trim off any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Q: How do I prevent the orzo from getting mushy?

A: Add the orzo near the end of cooking and simmer only until just tender. If storing leftovers, consider cooking and storing the orzo separately to maintain its texture.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes! The flavors only get better as the soup sits. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently, adding extra broth as needed since the orzo will soak up liquid.

Craving comfort with a bright, zesty twist? This Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is everything you want in an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. Try it tonight and let me know how you like it-leave a comment or rating below, and share your own delicious twists!