This creamy chicken orzo soup is warm and comforting. It features tender chicken, small pasta, and fresh veggies in a rich broth that wraps you in a cozy hug.
On chilly days, this soup feels like a warm blanket. I love how easy it is to make—you just throw everything in, let it simmer, and enjoy the happiness in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for sautéing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using just olive oil. I prefer a mix for added richness!
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control salt levels. If you like a stronger flavor, consider using homemade broth or stock. Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture, but if you don’t have it, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. I’ve also used plain yogurt to keep it creamy without the calories.
Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley brighten the dish. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can work too—just use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get That Creamy Texture?
To achieve a creamy, luscious soup, there are a couple of steps to follow. If you’re using flour, you’ll want to start by making a slurry. This helps thicken the soup without lumps.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of cold broth to create a smooth paste.
- Slowly stir this mixture into the hot soup while it’s simmering, ensuring it’s well combined.
- If you skip the flour, simply add the heavy cream or half-and-half directly, and let it simmer a bit longer to incorporate.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth texture.
Remember to taste and adjust seasoning—it’s crucial for a satisfying soup!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
For the Broth and Pasta:
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
To Make It Creamy:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
Optional Garnish:
- Dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights. Total time: about 35 minutes from start to finish. Easy and yummy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. This creates a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Watch closely so it doesn’t boil over!
4. Add Orzo and Herbs:
Once boiling, add the orzo pasta along with the dried oregano and thyme. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
5. Stir in Chicken:
Add the cooked chicken to the pot and mix well. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. Stirring helps incorporate all the wonderful flavors!
6. Make It Creamy:
If you’re using flour for thickening, whisk it in a small bowl with a few tablespoons of cold cream or broth until smooth. Then, slowly stir this into the soup. If you’re skipping the flour, just add the heavy cream or half-and-half directly to the pot.
7. Simmer and Thicken:
Let the soup simmer gently for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help it to thicken and get all those delicious flavors combined.
8. Season to Taste:
Now’s the time to add salt and pepper to make it perfect just for you. Taste as you go!
9. Add Fresh Herbs:
Right before serving, stir in the fresh dill or parsley for a burst of flavor and freshness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy chicken orzo soup hot. Top each bowl with an optional dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and enjoy with some crusty bread on the side. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Enjoy your delicious warm bowl of creamy chicken orzo soup!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this soup. Just shred it and add it in during the cooking process to heat through. It’ll save you time and add great flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even rice if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they might vary!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This soup keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stove. It’s best to add the cream just before serving; if you plan to rewarm it, consider adding the cream fresh to maintain its texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
