A refreshing and hearty soup made with shredded chicken, orzo pasta, fresh lemon, and herbs — a cozy meal perfect for any day of the week.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 ½ cups orzo
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, spinach
Simmer chicken in water or broth until cooked through. Shred and set aside.
In the same pot, heat oil or butter and sauté onion, carrot, and celery until soft.
Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes.
Return shredded chicken to the pot and heat through.
Remove from heat, add lemon juice and zest, and stir in herbs.
Taste and season. Serve warm.