Name: Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 white onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 large carrots, diced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, butterflied; 1 cup orzo; Juice from 1-2 lemons; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm, sunny hug, the Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. This vibrant, cozy soup is a beautiful balance of zesty lemon, tender chicken, and delicate orzo pasta swimming in a fragrant broth that’s rich with fresh dill and sautéed veggies. It’s a dish that’s simple to make yet so flavorful, it will quickly become a go-to for weeknight dinners or when you need a little pick-me-up that’s wholesome and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate in the center with two raw chicken pieces that are pale pink and smooth. Around the plate, there are several small white bowls and items arranged on a white marbled surface: on top left, a bowl with diced white onions; next to it, a halved bright yellow lemon; on the top right, a bowl with golden yellow olive oil; under that, a bowl with thinly sliced bright orange carrots; to the right of the plate, sprigs of fresh green dill and a whole garlic bulb; below the plate, a bowl with pale yellow orzo pasta; next to it, a bowl filled with chopped green celery; and in front, a small white pitcher containing light golden chicken broth. A small wooden bowl with coarse white salt is near the top left lemon half. The colors are fresh and natural, making the ingredients clear and easy to see. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the olive oil and garlic create a fragrant base, onions and veggies add texture and sweetness, while chicken and broth provide the hearty soul of the soup. And of course, the lemon and dill give it that unmistakable bright, fresh Greek character.

Olive oil: Use good-quality extra virgin for the best flavor foundation.
Minced garlic: Adds an aromatic kick that wakes up your senses.
White onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
Celery stalks, diced: Offers a subtle crunch and moisture.
Carrots, diced: Provide a gentle earthiness and a pop of color.
Chicken broth: The soul of the soup, choose low sodium for better control of saltiness.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors; sprinkle to taste.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean protein that cooks quickly and shreds beautifully.
Orzo: Small, rice-shaped pasta that becomes tender and comforting.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy zing that lifts the entire soup.
Fresh dill, minced: The herbaceous heart of Greek flavor, fresh dill is essential.

How to Make Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Build the flavor base

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, diced white onion, celery, and carrots. Let these cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the garlic perfumes the air. This step sets the stage by creating a savory, fragrant base that makes the soup irresistible from the first stir.

Step 2: Simmer the chicken broth and cook the chicken

Pour in your chicken broth and sprinkle in kosher salt. Nestle in the boneless skinless chicken breasts, making sure they’re submerged. Let everything simmer for about 15 to 17 minutes until the chicken is perfectly cooked through—this timing ensures juicy and tender meat without drying out. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside to rest while the orzo cooks.

Step 3: Cook the orzo pasta

With the chicken removed, add your orzo directly into the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing it to cook until tender but still with a slight bite—think 8 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, shred the rested chicken using two forks so it’s ready to be added back in for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Finish with lemon, dill, and shredded chicken

Once the orzo reaches the perfect texture, lower the heat. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot along with freshly minced dill and enough fresh lemon juice to brighten every spoonful. Combine everything gently and let the flavors marry just a minute or two. This final step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting Greek classic.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe

A black pot filled with clear broth containing four large pieces of light beige cooked chicken skin on top, with small chopped pieces of white onions and green celery dispersed throughout the soup. There is also a wooden spoon resting inside the pot, partially submerged in the broth, held by a woman's hand. The pot is placed on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle a few fresh dill sprigs over the top or add a small drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. A small handful of crumbled feta cheese sprinkled just before serving ups the tang and adds a creamy contrast that pairs perfectly with the lemony broth.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or traditional pita to soak up every last drop of broth. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives can round out the meal with crisp freshness that contrasts nicely against the warm soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in individual rustic bowls with a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to add a bit more zest if they like. For a festive twist, garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dash of smoked paprika adds a surprising layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and tastes even better as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but be mindful that the orzo tends to soften after freezing and reheating, so it’s best for shorter storage. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without breaking down the orzo texture too much. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more richness and remain juicy. Just adjust cooking time by a few minutes to make sure they’re fully cooked through before shredding.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and heartiness.

Is orzo the only pasta that works?

While orzo is traditional and shapes the texture perfectly, you can try other small pasta like acini di pepe or even small shells, though cooking times may vary.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté your veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker, cooking on low for about 4 hours. Add the orzo and lemon juice during the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking the pasta.

How much lemon juice should I add?

The recipe calls for juice from 1 to 2 lemons depending on your taste preference. Start with one, taste, and add more if you want a brighter zing.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Greek Lemon Orzo Soup with Chicken Recipe: it’s the kind of dish that feels personal and incredibly comforting while still tasting fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or craving a light but satisfying lunch, this soup invites you to enjoy pure, sunny flavors in a bowl. I hope you give it a try and add your own little touches—once you do, it might just become one of your favorite soups to make and share.