why make this recipe

Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for any day of the week. This recipe combines tender pieces of chicken, nutritious vegetables, and tiny orzo pasta in a rich, creamy broth. It’s not only delicious but also a hearty meal that can feed your whole family. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

how to make Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
3 ribs celery, diced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 cups chicken broth, warmed
2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
3/4 cup dried orzo pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup minced fresh herbs (parsley, dill, tarragon)
kosher salt
white pepper

Directions:

Saute the veggies: Melt the butter in a 4-quart Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. When the butter is melted and foamy, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with salt and white pepper.
Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the butter and sautéed veggies, and stir well. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to cook out any raw flour taste.
Add the broth: Add the warmed broth to the pot one cup at a time, stirring between additions. This helps prevent lumps in the soup. Once all the broth is incorporated, stir in the chicken and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the orzo: Add the orzo to the soup and stir well. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so that the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Finish the soup: Once the orzo is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the cream and chopped herbs. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve the creamy chicken orzo soup immediately.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can garnish it with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It goes well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just keep in mind that the orzo may absorb some broth, so you might want to add a little more liquid when you reheat it.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Make sure to dice your vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer longer before adding the cream.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences.

variation

You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken if you have leftovers. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or peas for more nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can add uncooked chicken pieces at the beginning with the vegetables. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the broth.

Is there a gluten-free option for orzo?

Yes, gluten-free orzo is available in stores. You can use it in this recipe without any problem.

Can I make this soup without cream?

Absolutely! You can skip the cream for a lighter soup or use a dairy-free alternative. You could also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness instead of cream.