There’s something truly soothing about coming home to a warm bowl of soup, especially after a long day. Picture this: the vibrant aroma of lemon wafts through the kitchen as you stir a pot filled with tender chicken, silky orzo, and fresh spinach. Welcome to my cozy corner, where I’ll share my recipe for Lemony Chicken, Orzo, and Spinach Soup with Dill—a dish that not only warms the soul but also brightens the spirit with its zesty flavor.
This one-pot wonder is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean freshness and hearty comfort, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, serving up high-protein nutrition with every spoonful. Let’s dive into this easy, gourmet meal that will transform your cooking routine and bring joy to your table!
Why is Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup with Dill so special?
Comforting Warmth: This hearty soup envelops you in warmth, making it the ideal cozy meal for chilly nights.
Brisk & Bright: The fresh lemon and dill provide a vibrant twist, elevating traditional chicken soup to something extraordinary.
One-Pot Convenience: Simplify your dinner prep with just one pot—less cleanup means more time to relax!
Nutritious Delight: Packed with protein and loaded with vitamins from fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice the whole family will love.
Easy Adaptation: Customize this soup effortlessly—swap in white beans for a vegetarian option or add seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition.
Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps sauté aromatics for a flavorful base.
• Onion – Adds a sweet, rounded flavor to the broth. Always use fresh, not yellowed or sprouted onions.
• Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness and color; fresh carrots yield the best flavor.
• Celery – Enhances the flavor base with savory notes; substitute with fennel for a different twist if desired.
• Chicken Thighs (or Chicken Breasts) – Adds protein and heartiness; thighs remain more tender when cooked.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Controls the soup’s saltiness while providing rich chicken flavor. Homemade broth is best!
• Orzo – Acts as a comforting pasta element absorbing the broth’s flavors perfectly. Substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini if preferred.
• Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrant color and nutritional value; kale can be used but requires a longer cooking time.
• Fresh Dill – Imparts a clean, herby flavor crucial to this Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup. Dried dill doesn’t compare!
• Lemon (Juice and Zest) – Brightens the dish, enhancing freshness; avoid bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Greek Yogurt (optional) – For a creamy finish, adds probiotics and tang; temper before adding to prevent curdling.
Enjoy this delightful soup, brimming with flavor and warmth!
How to Make Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened and aromatic. This step creates a flavorful base for the soup.
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Add Chicken and Broth: Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot and pour in low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, allowing it to cool slightly before shredding it. Set the shredded chicken aside, ready to return to the soup.
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Cook Orzo: Stir in the orzo to the pot and cook according to package instructions. Look for the pasta to be just tender and beautifully absorbing the flavors of the broth.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Off the heat, add fresh spinach, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Stir until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are nicely combined.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, with optional Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan, and lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with extra dill for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup Variations
Feel free to elevate your soup experience with these fun twists that add flavor, nutrition, and variety!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with white beans for a hearty and protein-rich vegetarian dish that still satisfies.
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Seasonal Veggies: Toss in colorful zucchini, peas, or even bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrients and a pop of color.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a delightful heat that transforms the flavor profile.
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Herb Variations: Swap fresh dill for fresh thyme or basil for a different herbaceous twist; try mixing herbs for an exciting fusion.
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Citrus Zest Boost: Incorporate more than just lemon—consider adding the zest and juice of an orange to brighten the soup with a citrus medley.
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Nutty Texture: Stir in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for a crunchy texture contrast against the soft orzo and chicken.
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Creamy Addition: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for an extra layer of richness that complements the soup beautifully.
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Homemade Stock: For a flavor upgrade, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock—this can take your Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup to gourmet levels.
Expert Tips for Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup
• Sauté with Care: Don’t rush the sautéing of the vegetables; this enhances their natural sweetness, creating a rich-flavored base for your soup.
• Gentle Simmer: Keep the simmer gentle rather than at a rolling boil; this prevents the chicken from becoming tough and ensures a tender bite.
• Final Seasoning: Always wait to adjust salt at the end; this prevents over-salting and lets the fresh broth flavor shine.
• Yogurt Caution: When adding Greek yogurt for creaminess, temper it first by mixing with a bit of hot broth to avoid curdling in your Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh dill instead of dried for the best flavor; it is pivotal in lifting the overall freshness of the soup.
How to Store and Freeze Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup
• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The orzo will absorb broth and soften; consider adding a splash of broth when reheating.
• Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully! To maintain texture, omit orzo before freezing; store for up to 3 months. Cook fresh orzo when ready to enjoy again.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding extra broth as needed to revive its comforting consistency. Stir frequently to warm evenly.
• Airtight Storage: Always ensure containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn and preserve the fresh flavors in your Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup.
What to Serve with Lemony Chicken, Orzo, and Spinach Soup?
A delightful meal deserves equally satisfying companions!
- Crusty Bread: Offers a satisfying crunch and perfect for scooping up every bit of that savory broth.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette brings a burst of freshness, balancing out the flavors of the soup.
- Garlic Butter Toast: The rich, buttery flavor combined with a hint of garlic enhances the overall comfort without overpowering the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they provide a nutty contrast and extra vitamins, complementing the heartiness of the soup beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this salty, savory cheese over the soup adds depth and richness—perfect for cheese lovers!
- Lemonade or Herbal Tea: A cool drink with a hint of citrus or calming herbs will brighten your meal, echoing the soup’s zesty notes.
- Tart Cherry Crisp: This sweet and slightly tart dessert nicely rounds off the meal, offering a fruity contrast to the savory soup.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful array of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing finish to your dining experience, cleansing the palate.
- Greek Yogurt Dip with Veggies: A cool and creamy accompaniment adds a delightful texture, inviting contrast for your taste buds while staying on theme.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the lemony notes and enhances the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemony Chicken, Orzo, and Spinach Soup with Dill are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, feel free to cook and shred the chicken ahead of time; it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply heat the broth and vegetables, cook the orzo according to package instructions, and add the chicken, spinach, lemon zest, and fresh dill right off the heat. This way, you’ll savor all the bright flavors just as deliciously as if made fresh!
Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup with Dill Recipe FAQs
What type of onion should I use for this soup?
Absolutely use fresh onions for an optimal flavor. Avoid yellowed or sprouted onions, as they won’t provide the sweet, rounded flavor that your broth needs for this vibrant Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup with Dill.
How can I store leftover Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Keep in mind that the orzo will absorb the broth and soften, so you might want to add a splash of broth when reheating to achieve that comforting consistency again.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! To maintain texture, omit the orzo before freezing. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, cook fresh orzo and stir it into the reheated soup for a delightful experience.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
If your Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup becomes too thick after refrigeration or freezing, simply add some low-sodium chicken broth or water while reheating on the stove. Stir frequently until you reach your desired consistency, and don’t forget to taste and adjust for seasoning.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
For those with allergies, this recipe primarily contains chicken, vegetables, and orzo, so be cautious of gluten in the pasta. Swap the orzo with gluten-free pasta if needed! If you’re accommodating vegetarian diets, substituting chicken with white beans can yield a deliciously hearty meal.
Lemony Chicken, Orzo & Spinach Soup with Dill for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened.
- Add chicken thighs to the pot and pour in low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until chicken reaches 165°F, about 15-20 minutes.
- Carefully remove chicken from the pot, cool slightly, then shred and set aside.
- Stir in the orzo to the pot and cook according to package instructions.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Off the heat, add fresh spinach, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Stir until spinach wilts.
- Serve hot, with optional Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan, and lemon wedges.