This creamy chicken orzo soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with tender chicken, small pasta, and veggies, all in a rich and comforting broth.
You’ll love how quick and easy this soup is to make. I often whip it up after a long day, and it feels like instant comfort food. Just pile on the crackers for dipping! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer using olive oil for a lighter taste, but butter gives a nice richness. You can use either, or a mix of both works well too!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a cute rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for soups. If you’re out of orzo, try small shells or ditalini. Both will add a nice chewiness!
Heavy Cream: I often use half-and-half to lighten it up, but for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works great for creaminess without the milk.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for its convenience. If you have leftover chicken, use that; it’s a great way to save time and add flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Orzo Doesn’t Stick Together?
A common issue with orzo is it can stick together while cooking, making it clumpy. To avoid this, here are a few tips:
- Use a large pot with plenty of water for boiling the orzo; this gives it room to move.
- Stir the orzo occasionally during cooking to separate any sticking strands.
- Do not overcook the orzo! It’s best when it’s al dente, meaning it’s cooked but still has a slight firmness.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked orzo for your soup, enhancing the overall texture and enjoyment of every spoonful.
Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup will take around 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping and prepping your ingredients and then around 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and so comforting—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Your Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and starting to become translucent.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. You want it to get nice and fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Bring that wonderful mixture to a boil! Your kitchen should smell amazing at this point.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Once boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is tender, usually around 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
5. Add the Chicken:
When the orzo is almost done, stir in the shredded chicken until everything is well mixed together.
6. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Now, slowly stir in the heavy cream and dill, heating it through for another 2-3 minutes. Just don’t let it boil after adding the cream!
7. Season to Perfection:
Taste your soup and add salt and black pepper to suit your preference. This is where you can really make it your own!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, and don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill on top for a pop of color and flavor!
This rich, creamy chicken orzo soup is truly a bowl of comfort, especially on chilly days. Enjoy it with some crusty bread or crackers for dipping—delicious!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works just as well as chicken. Simply shred or chop it up and add it in step 5, just like you would with the cooked chicken.
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
You can lighten it up by using less cream or substituting evaporated milk for heavy cream. Adding more veggies, like spinach or kale, can also boost the nutrient content without sacrificing flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes quite well! Just allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta or grain you choose!
