5-Star Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup (One Pot, 30-Minute Comfort Meal)

Bright, tangy, and comforting — this Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup brings together tender shredded chicken, silky orzo, and a burst of fresh lemon in every spoonful. It’s ready in 30 minutes, made in one pot, and feels like a warm hug on busy nights.

When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving something cozy after a long day, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup. It’s light yet satisfying, brimming with tender chicken, carrots, and a hint of zesty lemon that instantly lifts your mood. This recipe is inspired by my belief that healthy comfort food shouldn’t require all day in the kitchen — just smart ingredients and a few simple steps.

I make this soup at least once a week because it’s perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully. The orzo adds that comforting, pasta-like texture without feeling heavy, while the lemon gives the broth a clean, refreshing balance. If you love high-protein recipes that keep you full and energized, you’ll also enjoy my 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain — it’s packed with simple, nourishing ideas that fit any lifestyle.

To keep things extra simple, I rely on a few trusty kitchen tools. My favorite is the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale — it helps me measure chicken and orzo precisely so the soup turns out perfectly every time. If you don’t already own one, it’s an affordable, reliable scale that makes cooking feel effortless.

In true TopChoiceRecipes fashion, this soup is nutritious, protein-packed, and family-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for recovery after a workout or warming up on a Sunday evening, it’s the kind of dish that feels like home — wholesome, bright, and endlessly comforting.

Ingredients & Prep

A great Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup starts with a few wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Everything comes together in one pot, making it the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting but light.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)
• ¾ cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 large lemon, juiced (plus extra slices for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Optional for richness: 1 egg whisked with 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for Greek avgolemono-style creaminess)

Substitutions & Tips

• Protein swap: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable stock and swap shredded chicken for chickpeas.
• Low-carb tip: Substitute the orzo with cauliflower rice — same texture, fewer carbs.
• Creamier texture: Stir in a splash of unsweetened almond milk or Greek yogurt before serving.

For more cozy high-protein ideas, you’ll love the 5-Step Creamy Chicken Enchiladas — another quick, crowd-pleasing dinner packed with flavor and nutrients.

Tools You’ll Need

• Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Ideal for brushing olive oil or melted butter evenly over vegetables or chicken pieces. Heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe.
• TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – Perfect for turning and shredding chicken effortlessly. The silicone tips are safe for nonstick pans and easy to clean.
• Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – Accurate and compact, great for portioning ingredients or meal prep.
• Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife – Ideal for slicing the crusty baguette that pairs perfectly with this soup.
• NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) – Great for whisking in the lemon-egg mixture if you’re going for the creamy Greek-style version.

(Each tool listed is tested and recommended for reliable, everyday use.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

This Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup comes together in just 30 minutes, all in one pot. Follow these simple steps for a light, cozy meal that tastes like it simmered for hours.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
2. Add broth and bring to a simmer
   Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. This base creates a light yet flavorful broth.
3. Cook the orzo
   Stir in the orzo and reduce heat slightly. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. The orzo should be tender but not mushy.
4. Add the chicken
   Once the orzo is nearly done, stir in the shredded chicken. Let it warm through for about 3–4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Add the lemon juice
   Turn off the heat, then stir in fresh lemon juice. This step brightens the broth and balances the richness of the chicken perfectly.
6. Optional: Greek-style finish
   For a creamy finish, whisk one egg with two tablespoons of lemon juice in a small bowl. Slowly ladle in ½ cup of hot soup while whisking, then pour the mixture back into the pot. Stir well — it’ll give the broth a silky, velvety texture.
7. Garnish and serve
   Ladle into bowls, top with lemon slices and chopped parsley, and add a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a wholesome, high-protein pairing.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the orzo: It continues to absorb liquid as it sits. If the soup thickens too much later, just add a splash of broth before reheating.
• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice can make the flavor dull. Fresh citrus keeps the broth bright and clean.
• Make it ahead: This soup stores beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridge and freezes well (minus the orzo). Cook orzo fresh before serving for the best texture.
• Meal prep bonus: Divide into airtight containers with 1 cup soup each — perfect post-workout portions for the week.

Nutrition & Benefits

This Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup isn’t just cozy — it’s loaded with lean protein, complex carbs, and immune-supporting ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your cravings. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling light, balanced, and comforted from the inside out.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

(Based on 1 of 4 servings; values may vary depending on ingredients used.)

High-protein, low-fat, and perfectly portioned — this soup delivers everything your body needs for recovery and steady energy.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Chicken – A high-quality source of lean protein that supports muscle repair and helps keep you full longer. According to Harvard Health Publishing, protein-rich meals aid muscle maintenance and satiety when paired with healthy carbs.
• Lemon – Packed with vitamin C, lemon juice boosts immune function and adds a natural brightness that balances richer foods.
• Orzo – A small, rice-shaped pasta that provides steady energy through complex carbohydrates — ideal for post-workout recovery or busy days.
• Carrots & Celery – Provide natural sweetness and fiber for digestive health, plus antioxidants that promote overall wellness.
• Olive Oil – Adds a touch of healthy fat to absorb fat-soluble nutrients and support heart health.

Smart Nutrition Notes

If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season gradually to taste. For extra protein, stir in ½ cup of cottage cheese before serving — it melts into the broth and adds creamy texture without extra fat.

You can also pair this dish with the 2-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl for a protein-rich meal combo that feels indulgent yet fits any fitness goal.

Health Disclaimer:
This recipe and its nutritional estimates are provided for general informational purposes. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

5-Star Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup (One Pot, 30-Minute Comfort Meal)

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This 5-Star Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort meal — tender shredded chicken, bright lemon, and silky orzo come together in one pot for a nourishing 30-minute dinner. Light yet satisfying, it’s packed with protein, flavor, and warmth — perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

• Author: Sophie Bennett – Top Choice Recipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup, Dinner
• Method: One Pot, Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)

• ¾ cup dry orzo pasta

• 1 large lemon, juiced (plus extra slices for garnish)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

• Optional for creamy texture: 1 egg whisked with 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

2. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the Orzo
Stir in the dry orzo and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender but still slightly firm.

4. Add Shredded Chicken
Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and let it warm through for 3–4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Stir in Lemon Juice
Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. This adds brightness and balances the richness of the broth.

6. Optional Creamy Finish
If you’d like a creamy version, whisk together one egg and two tablespoons of lemon juice in a small bowl. Slowly ladle in ½ cup of the hot soup while whisking, then pour it back into the pot, stirring constantly.

 

7. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a slice of Cottage Cheese Flatbread for extra protein.

Notes

• For a low-carb version, replace orzo with cauliflower rice.

• To store, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to thin out the texture.

• This soup freezes well for up to 3 months (omit orzo before freezing).

 

• For extra protein, stir in ½ cup of cottage cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions & FAQs

A bowl of Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup feels like comfort made simple — but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup pairs beautifully with just about anything on your table.

Serving Ideas

• Classic comfort: Serve with warm crusty bread or pita for dipping.
• Protein-packed combo: Pair with Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip and crisp veggies for a balanced lunch.
• Light dinner: Add a side of High-Protein Pumpkin Pancakes for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Freezer-friendly tip: Freeze the broth and chicken separately from the orzo to preserve the texture when reheating.

If you enjoy discovering healthy, high-protein comfort meals like this, you’ll find daily inspiration on Pinterest – Healthy Snacks by Sophie and FitFuel Recipes by Daniel — two collections filled with fresh, protein-rich recipe ideas.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Up to 3 months (without orzo). Add cooked orzo fresh before serving.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat; add broth to thin if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup reheats beautifully. Prepare the base ahead and cook the orzo just before serving for best texture.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely — it’s one of my favorite shortcuts. Just shred and add during the final minutes of cooking.

3. What can I use instead of orzo?
Try rice, quinoa, or even 5-Ingredient Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls for a gluten-free alternative that adds texture and nutrients.

4. Can I make it creamy without eggs or dairy?
Yes — blend one cup of the soup and stir it back in. It naturally thickens the broth while keeping it light and dairy-free.

Recommended Products

• Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Great for brushing olive oil or glaze evenly; heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe.
• TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – Perfect for handling chicken safely and easily.
• Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – My go-to for accurate measurements during meal prep.

Each of these tools makes cooking smoother, cleaner, and more enjoyable — especially for quick, high-protein recipes like this one.

Coach’s Closing — Sophie’s Note:
There’s something special about simple food made with intention. This Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup brings together nutrition, comfort, and joy in every spoonful — the kind of recipe you’ll come back to week after week.

Make it yours.