When comfort calls, nothing answers quite like a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup. It’s hearty, rich, and filled with familiar, cozy flavors — like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe takes the traditional chicken soup and upgrades it with a creamy broth, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables that make every spoonful nourishing and satisfying.
If you’re tired of thin, brothy soups and want something that really sticks to your ribs, this is it. The creaminess doesn’t overwhelm — instead, it wraps everything in a silky texture that feels indulgent without being too heavy. Think chicken pot pie meets Italian pasta soup.
Orzo, the tiny rice-shaped pasta, cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all the flavor and helping to thicken the soup naturally. Combined with chunks of shredded chicken, sweet carrots, and leafy greens, the result is a one-pot wonder you’ll return to again and again.
It’s perfect for busy nights because it comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. Most of what you need is probably already in your fridge and pantry. Plus, it’s adaptable — use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time, and swap in whatever greens you have on hand.
The balance of flavors in this soup is what sets it apart. The onion and garlic build the savory base. The carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. And the lemon at the end brightens everything up, giving the richness a refreshing lift.
People love this soup because it tastes like something you’d get at a cafe but takes less than an hour to make. It’s creamy but still fresh, filling without being too much. Kids love the orzo and creamy texture, while adults appreciate the depth and flavor.
This is also a soup that gets better as it sits. The flavors meld beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens up too much.
Serve it with a chunk of crusty bread, or keep it simple with a sprinkle of parmesan and cracked black pepper on top. Either way, it’s a dinner that feels both comforting and elevated.
You can even make it dairy-free with your favorite milk alternative, or lighten it up with less cream and more broth. It’s a flexible recipe that meets you where you are.
No matter the season, Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup brings warmth and flavor in a way few other soups can. It’s a weeknight winner, a weekend treat, and the kind of recipe that ends up on repeat.
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken and greens. Cook for 2-3 minutes until greens are wilted and chicken is heated through.
- Lower heat and stir in cream and parmesan. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with extra parmesan and black pepper if desired.
Tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Don’t overcook the orzo or it may become mushy.
- Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Swap spinach with kale, chard, or other leafy greens.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Creamy, comforting, and satisfying.
- Quick and easy with basic ingredients.
- Great for leftovers and meal prep.
- Balanced with protein, veggies, and pasta.
Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup is a quick, comforting dish loaded with tender chicken, orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. Easy to make and perfect for cozy nights or meal prep.
