This creamy chicken orzo soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with tender chicken, little orzo pasta, and yummy veggies all in a rich broth.
Perfect for chilly days, it’s so easy to make. I love how it warms me up, plus the kids always ask for seconds. Who can resist that creamy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This gives a nice base flavor for sautéing. You can substitute with butter for a richer taste or use vegetable oil if you’re aiming for something lighter.
Orzo Pasta: Little pasta is perfect for this soup. If you’re gluten-free, swap it for rice or quinoa instead. They work well and still create a lovely texture!
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you want a lighter option, try using a plant-based milk or low-fat milk, but keep in mind the creaminess will change.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is a good choice to control salt levels. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it, but store-bought works too! You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Soup?
Getting a nice texture in your chicken orzo soup is all about timing and technique. Here are some tips to help you:
- Sauté Vegetables First: Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery first helps release their flavors. Don’t rush this step!
- Watch the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly. Taste it a minute or two before the package instructions say to—this ensures it’s not overcooked and mushy.
- Don’t Boil After Adding Cream: Once you add half-and-half or heavy cream, heat gently. Boiling can cause it to curdle, which we definitely want to avoid!
With these tips, you’ll create a deliciously creamy and hearty soup every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy chicken orzo soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a warm, hearty soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. You want to develop a nice base flavor!
2. Add the Flavors:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute until you can smell the lovely aromas wafting up—yum!
3. Bring to a Boil:
Pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a flavorful broth for your soup.
4. Cook the Orzo and Chicken:
Once the broth is boiling, add the orzo pasta and bite-sized chicken pieces. Reduce the heat to let it simmer, and cook for about 8-10 minutes. The orzo should be tender, and the chicken fully cooked during this time.
5. Stir in the Cream:
After the orzo and chicken are cooked, lower the heat again and gently stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Allow it to heat through, but be careful not to let it boil—this helps keep that lovely creaminess intact.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste your soup and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. Then, serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. It’s perfect to enjoy with some crusty bread on the side!
Enjoy your creamy chicken orzo soup! It’s warm, comforting, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded or diced leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it in when you stir in the cream so it warms through without overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can easily use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the shape you choose!
Can This Soup Be Frozen?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream. Once cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, then add the cream just before serving.
How Can I Make This Soup Even Heartier?
For a heartier soup, feel free to add more vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them fresh and vibrant!
