Chicken Orzo Comfort Soup

Servings: 4
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal
Macros per Serving (approx.): Protein 28g / Carbs 12g / Fat 10g / Fiber 2g

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Orzo Soup

Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s hearty yet healthy? This Chicken Orzo Soup is perfectly balanced for flavor and nutrition, combining tender chicken, savory broth, low-carb or high-protein “orzo,” and fresh vegetables.

Tailored for Keto, low-carb, high-protein, and low-calorie diets, it’s a guilt-free comfort meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Each spoonful offers protein-packed nourishment and cozy, wholesome flavor without unnecessary carbs.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this soup is delicious, diet-friendly, and satisfying.

What Makes This Soup Special

• Sensory Appeal: Tender chicken, soft orzo, and a fragrant, rich broth create a warm, comforting texture.
• Flavor Highlight: Fresh herbs and a hint of lemon brighten the savory chicken flavor.
• Diet Benefits: Low-carb, protein-rich, Keto-approved, and portion-controlled for WW and low-calorie diets.

Ingredients Needed

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon

For the Orzo:

• ½ cup low-carb or high-protein pasta substitute (e.g., chickpea or lentil orzo for WW/high-protein, or shirataki orzo for Keto/low-carb)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or dill
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Our Chicken Orzo Soup

1. Cook the chicken: In a large pot, add chicken breasts, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
2. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the pot.
3. Add the orzo: Stir in your chosen orzo substitute and simmer for 5–8 minutes until tender (or according to package instructions).
4. Adjust flavor: Add lemon juice and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Optional lemon wedges add a bright finishing touch.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

• Storing: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat until heated through. Add extra broth if needed.
• Serving Pairings: Serve with a light green salad or low-carb bread for a full, diet-friendly meal.

Tips & FAQs

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Pre-cooked chicken works perfectly for a time-saving option.

Q: Can this be made fully Keto?
A: Substitute the orzo with shirataki noodles, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

Q: How can I make it higher protein?
A: Use extra chicken or add a scoop of unflavored protein powder to the broth (stirred in at the end).

Q: Can I meal prep this soup?
A: Yes! Store in portioned containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or green beans work well and keep it nutrient-rich.