Warm your soul with a bowl of "Chicken Soup with Orzo by Jimbo," a comforting classic that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. In just 40 minutes, you can create a deliciously satisfying soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo, this recipe promises to be a hit with family and friends. Ready to discover the secrets behind this delectable dish? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into small, uniform cubes, finely chopping the onion, slicing carrots into thin rounds, and chopping celery into small pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced chicken to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns white and begins to develop light golden edges, about 5-6 minutes.
- Incorporate sliced carrots and chopped celery into the pot, stirring to combine with the chicken and onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Add orzo pasta to the simmering soup, stirring to prevent sticking. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until orzo is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to further develop and soup to slightly thicken.
- Ladle hot soup into serving bowls, ensuring each portion has a good mix of chicken, vegetables, and orzo. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop all your vegetables and dice the chicken breast ahead of time. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Sauté for Flavor: Make sure to sauté the onions until they are translucent and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor base of your soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; it should be tender yet firm to the bite. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as necessary. This way, you can control the seasoning and avoid over-salting.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and gives the soup a chance to thicken slightly.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 343kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 39g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 94mg
