Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

A bowl of creamy chicken orzo soup garnished with fresh herbs, featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich, smooth broth.

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This creamy chicken orzo soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, lovely orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.

I love how quick it is to make! You just toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. It’s a great way to chase away the cold while filling your tummy with goodness!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and a lovely flavor. If you prefer, you can use butter for a richer taste, or any neutral oil like avocado oil.

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too!

Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and adds a nice texture. You can substitute with couscous, quinoa, or even small macaroni if orzo isn’t available.

Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts nicely and adds nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard can be yummy alternatives, but they will take a bit longer to cook down.

Heavy Cream: It gives the soup that creamy finish. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that will still keep it creamy!

How Do You Make Sure Your Soup is Creamy and not Watery?

The key to a thick, creamy soup lies in the mixture of cream and flour. Here’s how to nail it:

  • Start by heating your base ingredients like onion and garlic while the broth warms up.
  • Mix a small amount of flour with the heavy cream before adding it to the pot. This will prevent lumps.
  • Add the cream mixture slowly to the soup, stirring constantly over low heat. This helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture.
  • If you prefer your soup less thick, simply add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Remember to let it simmer gently after adding the cream. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!

Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced (optional)
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to get this creamy goodness on your table. Quick and comforting!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Start with Sautéing the Vegetables:

In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add in your diced onion, carrots, and celery if you’re using it. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.

2. Add Garlic for Flavor:

Once the vegetables are softened, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This will add a wonderful aroma to your soup!

3. Bring in the Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!

4. Cook the Orzo:

Stir in the orzo pasta, dried thyme, and oregano. Once everything is combined, lower the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.

5. Add Chicken and Spinach:

Mix in the cooked chicken and freshly chopped spinach. Cook just until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

6. Make it Creamy:

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Slowly pour this creamy mixture into the soup pot while stirring to avoid lumps. Let it cook over low heat for another 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes super creamy.

7. Season to Taste:

Give your soup a taste, then season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Mix well!

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Everything is ready! Ladle your creamy chicken orzo soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve it hot with slices of crusty bread or crackers on the side. Enjoy the warmth and comfort!

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy chicken orzo soup. It’s sure to become a favorite!

Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this soup. Just shred or dice it and add it during the last steps for a quick and easy meal.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the orzo pasta with gluten-free orzo or other gluten-free pasta options like rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they are tender.

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