Classic chicken orzo soup

This comforting chicken soup takes on a delightful twist with tender orzo pasta, creating a heartwarming bowl that brings back memories of winter days spent in grandmother's kitchen. Each spoonful tells a story where homemade broth meets crisp vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta.

This recipe became our Sunday night tradition after I first made it on a rainy October evening. The simmering broth drew everyone to the kitchen, and even my vegetable-resistant children now ask for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Use skin-on for extra flavor. Free-range chicken provides better texture and taste
• Orzo: These rice-shaped pasta pieces perfectly absorb the broth's flavors
• Onion: Yellow onions provide a gentle sweetness to the base
• Celery: Choose bright green, crisp stalks for the best peppery notes
• Carrots: Medium-sized, firm carrots add natural sweetness
• Lentils: French green lentils hold their shape well during cooking
• Chicken broth: Homemade is best, but quality store-bought works too
• Fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves are ideal, though dried varieties work

Aromatics Preparation

Step 1:

Peel and dice onion into 5mm pieces

Step 2:

Thoroughly rinse celery under cold water

Step 3:

Dice celery to match onion size

Step 4:

Peel and slice carrots into rounds or small cubes

Step 5:

Rinse lentils and check for stones

Building the Base

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in your largest pot

Step 2:

Soften onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes

Step 3:

Add celery and carrots, cook 5 minutes while stirring

Step 4:

Allow vegetables to release their flavors during this crucial step

Creating the Soup

Step 1:

Pour hot broth over vegetables

Step 2:

Add lentils, bay leaves, and thyme

Step 3:

Bring to boil then reduce heat

Step 4:

Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally

Step 5:

Maintain gentle simmer, not rapid boil

Adding the Orzo

Step 1:

Slowly sprinkle in orzo to prevent clumping

Step 2:

Stir gently but regularly to prevent sticking

Step 3:

Cook according to package instructions

Step 4:

Test for al dente texture

Finishing Touches

Step 1:

Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas

Step 2:

Heat through 2-3 minutes more

Step 3:

Taste and adjust seasonings

Step 4:

Let rest 5 minutes before serving

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Orzo has become my favorite soup addition. Its unique texture combines the best of rice and pasta. Even my daughter, who usually avoids rice in soups, fell in love with these small pasta shapes.

The Art of Broth Making

A superior soup starts with quality broth. Following grandmother's wisdom, I save chicken bones in the freezer for homemade stock. The cooking aromas transform the kitchen into a cozy sanctuary.

Leftovers and Storage

This soup improves after a day as flavors meld together. It keeps well for 3-4 days refrigerated. When reheating, add hot broth if needed to adjust thickness.

Seasonal Adaptations

Fresh peas and fava beans work beautifully in spring. Fall versions shine with mushrooms and butternut squash. The recipe adapts perfectly to market-fresh produce.

Serving Suggestions

Serving becomes a special ritual with this soup. Present it in a cherished soup tureen, garnished with fresh parsley and homemade garlic croutons. The act of ladling steaming portions adds to the experience.

More than just soup, this recipe represents comfort and connection. It proves that simple family cooking can create extraordinary results. Each batch carries forward a tradition of care and patience.

Watching empty bowls return to the kitchen brings true satisfaction. When children request seconds, I know this recipe will continue enriching our family story for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long does it take to make this soup?

It takes about 30-40 minutes in total, with 10-15 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes to cook.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container, and it’ll last for 2-3 months in the freezer.

→ How can I change up this recipe?

Swap the orzo for rice, mix in extra veggies, or use shredded rotisserie chicken instead.

→ Is this a balanced soup?

Definitely! It’s a great mix of protein (chicken), carbs (orzo), and a variety of vegetables.

→ How many people does this recipe serve?

It serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.