Description
Experience the delightful flavors of Orzo and Herb-Infused Chicken Soup, a dish that artfully combines succulent shredded chicken, nourishing vegetables, and the fragrant zest of lemon and dill. This recipe promises a burst of freshness in every spoonful, making it a versatile choice for any season. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or seeking a comforting dish for dinner, this chicken soup is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 64 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 Bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and zest from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper, more to taste
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped and some sprigs for garnish
- Creme Fraîche or sour cream (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add the celery and carrots, continuing to sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Introduce the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Combine the chicken broth, shredded chicken, peas, coriander, and lemon zest into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and maintain it on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
While the soup simmers, boil a separate pot of water and cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain once cooked.
Step 5: Final Flavor Adjustments
Stir in the fresh dill and lemon juice into the soup. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, ensuring the lemon flavor is prominent.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes, totalling about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simmer gently on the stove or heat in the microwave until thoroughly warm.
- Freeze the soup without the orzo to avoid it becoming mushy. Add freshly cooked orzo when reheating.
Conclusion
The Orzo and Herb-Infused Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. With its rich broth, hearty vegetables, and tender chicken, complemented by the zing of lemon and dill, this soup is perfect for any day of the year. It’s simple to prepare, delightful to serve, and even better to savor. Enjoy this classic with a modern twist that will surely keep you coming back for more.
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Orzo and Herb-Infused Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Experience the delightful flavors of Orzo and Herb-Infused Chicken Soup, a dish that artfully combines succulent shredded chicken, nourishing vegetables, and the fragrant zest of lemon and dill. This recipe promises a burst of freshness in every spoonful, making it a versatile choice for any season. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or seeking a comforting dish for dinner, this chicken soup is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 64 ounces chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 Bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and zest from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper, more to taste
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped and some sprigs for garnish
- Creme Fraîche or sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Base In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Add Vegetables Add the celery and carrots, continuing to sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Introduce the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Simmer the Soup Combine the chicken broth, shredded chicken, peas, coriander, and lemon zest into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and maintain it on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Step 4: Cook the Orzo While the soup simmers, boil a separate pot of water and cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain once cooked.
- Step 5: Final Flavor Adjustments Stir in the fresh dill and lemon juice into the soup. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, ensuring the lemon flavor is prominent.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes