Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup With Egg
It’s a crisp evening, and the need for something comforting and hearty yet not overly heavy kicks in.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 337 kcal
Largest soup pot
Separate bowl
- 8 –10 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup whole grain orzo
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken preferably rotisserie
- 3 large eggs
- Juice from 3–4 lemons approximately 1/2 cup
- A handful of fresh baby spinach
- 3 carrots peeled and chopped
- 1/2 onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
- Generous amount of freshly ground black pepper
- A generous handful of fresh dill
Step 1: Sauté the veggies
First, grab your largest soup pot. Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and set it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. The house is going to smell amazing—guaranteed.
Step 2: Introduce the chicken stock
Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a gentle boil. This step is crucial for melding all those savory, foundational flavors. And remember, if you’re using store-bought stock, no one needs to know; it’s our little secret.
Step 3: Add the orzo
Once the pot is bubbling softly, introduce the orzo. Stir it occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. The orzo will absorb the rich, savory stock, turning into tiny, flavor-bomb pillows.
Step 4: Incorporate the chicken
Step 5: Prepare the egg mixture
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice. Here’s the magic trick: Slowly ladle some hot broth into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. This ‘tempering’ method prevents the eggs from scrambling when they’re added to the soup, instead resulting in a luscious, creamy texture.
Step 6: Combine and finish
Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. The soup will transform before your eyes, taking on a beautiful, creamy consistency. Toss in the fresh baby spinach, dried thyme, sea salt, black pepper, and fresh dill. Give it a final stir and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: The bottled stuff just won’t cut it. Fresh juice brings a vibrant zing that elevates the entire dish.
- Temper the Eggs Properly: Whisk a small amount of hot broth into the eggs first to avoid curdling and ensure a silky finish.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Cook it just until al dente. It’ll soften more in the hot broth.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time with rotisserie chicken. It’s juicy and flavorful without the work.
- Add Greens Last: Spinach or kale should be stirred in at the end to keep them bright and tender.
Calories: 337kcal
Keyword Iemon Chicken Orzo Soup With Egg