Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale is a bright, nourishing soup featuring tender chicken, hearty kale, and delicate orzo pasta in a fragrant lemon-infused broth. Light yet satisfying, this healthy soup combines fresh citrus with wholesome ingredients for a perfect meal any time of year.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Healthy, Mediterranean-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon dried oregano and/or thyme, divided
1 ¼ teaspoons salt, divided
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
2 cups chopped onions
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
4 cups unsalted chicken broth
⅔ cup orzo pasta (preferably whole-wheat)
4 cups chopped kale
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Instructions
-
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken with half the oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
-
Add remaining olive oil to pot. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
-
Stir in garlic, bay leaf, and remaining oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
-
Add orzo pasta; cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until tender.
-
Stir in kale and cooked chicken. Simmer 3-5 minutes until kale wilts and soup is heated through.
-
Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Serve hot with extra lemon squeeze if desired.
Notes
Substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of orzo for gluten-free.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for brightness.
Include diced tomatoes or bell peppers for more flavor and color.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup-with-kale/
