Italian Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
User Reviews
5
Italian Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
Description
Italian Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe centers on boneless, skinless chicken breasts simmered in a broth enriched with sautéed garlic, sweet onions, carrots, and celery, all seasoned with dried Italian herbs. The orzo pasta cooks directly in the broth, absorbing the flavors and contributing a tender bite alongside the shredded chicken. Fresh basil stirred in just before serving adds a fresh herbal note, while Parmesan cheese offers a savory richness that complements the gentle seasoning. The soup is built by layering flavors through a brief sauté of onions and garlic before simmering the chicken, making the broth flavorful without overpowering the natural chicken taste.
The soup's texture balances the softness of the orzo and vegetables with the meaty chicken pieces, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. The method involves removing the cooked chicken to shred it before returning it to the pot, ensuring even distribution and thorough cooking. This recipe is suitable for cooler days or anytime a nourishing soup is desired.
The fresh basil and Parmesan added at the end mean the soup keeps its brightness and richness at serving time without overcooking delicate herbs. Adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper just before serving ensures the final flavor is balanced. Substitutions like whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used to accommodate dietary preferences without affecting the character of the soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 sweet onion peeled and chopped, large
- 5 garlic minced, cloves
- 2 cups carrot sliced
- 2 cups celery sliced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning dried
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast boneless, skinless
- 12 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta could use whole grain or gluten-free pasta, dried
- 1 cup basil fresh leaves
- 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese shaved
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Place the butter, onions, and garlic in a large sauce pot, and set over medium heat. Saute the onions for 3 minutes to soften. Then stir in the carrots, celery, Italian Seasoning, and 1 teaspoon salt. Saute another 3-5 minutes.
- Add whole chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set on a cutting board. Add the orzo to the soup and stir well so it doesn't stick. Chop or shred the chicken into bite-size pieces, then return to the pot.
- When ready to serve, taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and parmesan cheese. Ladle into bowls and serve warm!
Notes
- Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute for orzo to suit dietary needs.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 347 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1cup | |
| Calories | 347kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 31g | 10% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 86mg | 29% |
| Sodium | 2037mg | 85% |
| Potassium | 1171mg | 25% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 7705IU | 154% |
| Vitamin C | 42mg | 47% |
| Calcium | 166mg | 17% |
| Iron | 2.5mg | 14% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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