Description
Cozy up with this flavorful Italian Chicken and Orzo Soup made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty orzo pasta for a truly comforting meal that brightens chilly days. This delicious soup combines wholesome ingredients to create a rich, savory broth that nourishes both body and soul, making it perfect for family dinners or a satisfying solo lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta (or gluten-free pasta for variation)
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Liquids & Sauces
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store bought)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, then cook until softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes. This creates the flavor base for your soup.
- Brown the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and brown lightly on all sides for about 5 minutes. This seals in the juices and adds a golden color that enhances the flavor.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer so the flavors meld together.
- Cook the orzo: Once the broth is simmering gently, add the orzo pasta. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm to the bite, ensuring the soup retains a balanced texture.
- Add greens and finish: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The residual heat will wilt the greens, preserving their nutrients and fresh flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Do not overcook the orzo; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Fresh herbs brighten the flavor when added near the end.
- Prepare in advance: flavors improve after a few hours or overnight refrigeration.
- Add apple cider vinegar gradually to balance the tang without overpowering the soup.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (natural) for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Italian chicken soup, orzo soup, comforting soup, chicken and orzo, healthy soup, easy chicken soup
