Ah, creamy chicken orzo soup—where comfort meets deliciousness in a bowl! I can’t tell you how many rainy evenings I’ve spent curled up on the couch with a warm bowl of this beauty in my hands. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. The rich creaminess combined with tender chicken and the delightful little orzo make for a symphony of flavors and textures.
Every time I make this soup, I’m reminded of those cozy family dinners, where everyone would gather around the table, ready to dive into a meal that smells like home. If you’ve ever had a long day and just need something to lift your spirits, this is the recipe to rock your world!
What’s in Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need for this comforting dish:
Olive Oil: This is your cooking base. I love using a good extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. It not only helps the aromatics sauté but adds a lovely depth to the soup.
Onion: A medium-diced onion brings sweetness and complexity. You can’t have a hearty soup without onions, right?
Garlic: Three cloves of minced garlic take this soup to a whole new level. It’s the secret ingredient that makes everything irresistible!
Carrots and Celery: Two diced medium carrots and two celery stalks add fresh, crunchy textures and a vibrant color to the mix.
Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use shredded or diced cooked chicken breast. I often use leftovers or store-bought rotisserie chicken because life’s too short not to simplify where you can!
Chicken Broth: Six cups of chicken broth form the flavorful base. I prefer low-sodium broth to control the seasoning better.
Orzo Pasta: The tiny pasta that’s perfect in soups! This pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the flavor of the broth beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy. A cup of heavy cream adds a rich finish that you’ll love.
Dried Thyme and Oregano: These herbs bring warmth and aromatic hints to the soup. Just a teaspoon each does the trick.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste! These little guys can make all the difference.
Fresh Parsley: A quarter cup of chopped parsley is your finishing touch—fresh, vibrant, and visually appealing!
Is Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health. This soup has its pros and cons!
Chicken: High in protein, making this soup great for muscle recovery and a filling meal.
Carrots and Celery: Packed with vitamins and minerals, these veggies add a nutritious punch. Carrots are especially high in beta-carotene, which is great for eye health.
Heavy Cream: Okay, hold on—this is the rich part. Heavy cream does add calories and fat, so if you’re watching those, you might consider using half-and-half or a lower-fat alternative. Trust me; the flavor will still shine through!
Overall, this soup can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation!
Ingredients List
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This hearty recipe serves about 6 people—perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a pot of creamy goodness in no time:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant and you can barely contain your excitement!
3. Toss in the shredded chicken, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and let it cook according to package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes until tender.
5. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld those delicious flavors together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Soup Experience!
Now, here’s where you can play around a bit! This soup can be incredibly versatile. If you want an extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up.
Pair your soup with a warm crusty bread or a simple green salad, and you’re good to go! You could also swirl in some pesto for a herby twist.
Oh, and don’t forget: this soup freezes beautifully! So, if you happen to make too much (like I usually do, because I can’t help myself), it’s perfect for easy lunches or dinner on a busy night.
I hope you give this creamy chicken orzo soup a try! I can’t wait for you to experience the warmth and delightful flavors as much as I do. Let me know how you liked it—it’s always wonderful hearing from fellow soup lovers! Happy cooking!
