Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe

Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful tomatoes, and small pasta orzo in a savory broth. This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!

Ingredients List

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Timing

Preparing Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Aromatics: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine.
2. Add Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

1. Add Orzo: Once the soup is boiling, stir in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Season

1. Stir in Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir until heated through.
2. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	230
Protein	15g
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a creamier soup.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens.

Conclusion

Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a warm and satisfying dish that is perfect for any day of the week. With its delicious combination of chicken, tomatoes, and orzo, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if desired.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

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