Lemon Dill Chicken Orzo Soup Flavorful and Easy Recipe
If you crave a warm, tasty meal that’s easy to make, I’ve got you covered! My Lemon Dill Chicken Orzo Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and comfort. In this post, I’ll share the simple steps, tips, and tricks to make this dish shine. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, you’ll find everything you need to whip up this delicious soup. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavors: This soup combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the fresh aroma of dill, creating a refreshing and uplifting bowl of comfort.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome orzo, this soup is a balanced meal in a bowl.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal without the fuss.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap in other veggies or herbs based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Complete list of ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 celery stalks, diced into small pieces
– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
– Zest of 1 lemon and juice from the same lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredient notes and substitutions
For a lighter option, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. If you want a gluten-free meal, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Fresh dill gives the best flavor, but dried dill works in a pinch.
Nutritional information recap
This soup serves about six people. Each serving is rich in protein from the chicken and provides vitamins from the spinach, carrots, and celery. The orzo adds carbs for energy. The lemon juice boosts vitamin C, while the olive oil offers healthy fats. Each bowl is a comforting choice for a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed cooking steps
1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 diced onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir until the onion looks soft and clear. This gives a good base flavor.
4. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute. You want to smell that garlic!
5. Next, place 1 lb of chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth.
6. Bring this mix to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
7. When the chicken is cooked, take it out and set it on a cutting board.
8. Use two forks to shred the chicken into small pieces. Set it aside.
9. While the chicken cools, add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the pot. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes.
10. In the last 2 minutes, stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach, the shredded chicken, and 3 tablespoons of fresh dill.
11. Don’t forget to add the zest and juice from 1 lemon for brightness.
12. Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as you like.
13. Let it rest for a few minutes off the heat. This lets the flavors blend well.
Visual cues for doneness
– The onion should look soft and clear, not brown. This means it’s ready.
– When the chicken is done, it should be white all the way through. No pink at all.
– The orzo will be tender but still firm when it is al dente. Taste a piece to check.
– The spinach should wilt down nicely, adding color to your soup.
Common mistakes to avoid
– Do not rush the sautéing step. It builds flavor, so take your time.
– Don’t skip shredding the chicken well. It helps mix flavors throughout the soup.
– Be careful not to overcook the orzo. It can turn mushy if left too long.
– Adjust salt and pepper after cooking. This makes sure you don’t add too much early on.
Tips & Tricks
How to enhance flavor
To make this soup even better, focus on the herbs. Fresh dill is key here. Add more if you love its taste. You can also try adding thyme or parsley for a twist. A splash of white wine adds depth too. If you want a kick, try a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will bring warmth without overpowering the dish.
Recommendations for leftovers
When storing leftovers, let the soup cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. If you have extra orzo, consider keeping it separate. This helps prevent it from getting mushy. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving suggestions
Serve this soup warm in large bowls. A sprinkle of fresh dill on top adds a nice touch. A slice of lemon on the side brightens the flavors too. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping. If you want a fuller meal, add a simple salad on the side. Enjoy the comforting flavors with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh dill and spinach. Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the taste of your soup.
- Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Be careful not to overcook the orzo. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly after being added to the soup.
- Adjust for Acidity: If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest according to your taste.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to make it a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations
Gluten-free options
You can make this soup gluten-free by swapping the orzo with gluten-free pasta. Look for rice or quinoa pasta for great texture. Another option is to use rice. Just add it early to cook in the broth. This keeps the soup tasty and safe for those avoiding gluten.
Vegetarian alternative
To create a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add chickpeas or white beans for protein. Toss in more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor. The fresh dill and lemon will still shine through, making it light and fresh.
Customizing with different herbs
You can play with herbs to change the taste. Try parsley or basil for a different twist. Thyme or oregano gives a warm flavor that pairs well with chicken and veggies. Adjust the herbs to your liking. This soup is a great base to explore your favorite tastes.
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
To store your Lemon Dill Chicken Orzo Soup, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Label the container with the date. This helps you know when to use it.
Freezing instructions
You can freeze the soup if you want to save it longer. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. This soup freezes well for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating methods
Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add it directly to the pot. Cook it longer until it is fully cooked. Check that it reaches 165°F inside. This method works well and saves time.
How to make orzo soup creamy?
To make your orzo soup creamy, add a splash of heavy cream. You can also stir in some cream cheese. Another great option is to blend a portion of the soup. This adds a nice texture.
What can I add to make it heartier?
To make the soup heartier, add more vegetables like peas or potatoes. You could also toss in some beans for extra protein. If you want more grains, try adding rice or quinoa. Each option makes the soup more filling.
This blog post covers key ingredients, clear cooking steps, and helpful tips for your dish. We explored ways to enhance flavor, different variations to suit dietary needs, and smart storage methods. By avoiding common mistakes and following our guidelines, you can create a tasty meal every time. Remember, cooking is a skill that improves with practice. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your ow
Lemon Dill Chicken Orzo Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 stalks celery, diced into small pieces
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until you can smell its fragrant aroma.
- Carefully add the chicken breasts to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to allow it to simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then set it aside.
- While the chicken is cooling, add the orzo pasta to the simmering broth. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- In the last 2 minutes of the orzo cooking time, stir in the chopped spinach, the shredded chicken, fresh dill, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow everything to meld together as the spinach wilts.
- Taste the soup and season generously with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes before serving, allowing flavors to deepen.
![To make the spicy honey garlic shrimp, gather these items: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons honey - 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice tolerance) - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Instead of honey, try maple syrup for a different sweetness. - Use tamari if you need a gluten-free option for soy sauce. - For garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. - You can replace shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer. A serving of spicy honey garlic shrimp has about: - Calories: 220 - Protein: 25g - Fat: 8g - Carbohydrates: 10g - Fiber: 0g - Sodium: 600mg This dish offers a good amount of protein while keeping the carbs low. The honey adds sweetness, and the shrimp provide healthy nutrients. For the full recipe, check the link provided. To start, gather your ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster. You need: - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons honey - 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste In a medium bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ginger. Whisk it well. Set this aside to let the flavors blend. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until it shimmers. While it heats, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This helps them turn pink and golden on one side. Use tongs to flip the shrimp over. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes. The shrimp should be fully cooked and glossy with sauce. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the green onions and sesame seeds over the shrimp. This adds flavor and crunch. If you use smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side. For jumbo shrimp, increase cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side. Always check if they turn pink and are opaque. This means they are fully cooked. Enjoy this spicy honey garlic shrimp dish, and don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for more details! To get the best shrimp, look for large, firm shrimp. They should feel smooth and have a fresh smell. Avoid shrimp that smell like ammonia or are slimy. Fresh shrimp have a slight sheen and a pink color. If buying frozen shrimp, check for ice crystals. This means they may have thawed and refrozen. Cook shrimp quickly using high heat. This keeps them juicy and tender. Start with a hot pan and add oil. Add shrimp in a single layer; avoid crowding. Cook for just 2-3 minutes on one side until pink. Flip and then add your sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through. To boost flavor, add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can also use lime juice for a zesty kick. For extra heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. Want more depth? Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a bit of sesame oil. These small changes can make your shrimp pop with flavor. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can easily add veggies to this dish. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli work great. Start by sautéing the vegetables in the skillet before adding the shrimp. This way, they cook together perfectly. Toss them in with the shrimp and sauce for a balanced meal. The veggies soak up the sweet and spicy sauce, making each bite even better. Grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy this shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the honey garlic sauce for about 30 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Skewer the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll get a nice char and smoky flavor. This method is perfect for summer cookouts or outdoor gatherings. Turn this dish into tacos for a fun twist. Use corn tortillas or flour ones, whichever you prefer. Cook the shrimp as usual, then fill each taco with them. Top with cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. The crunch from the cabbage and creaminess from the avocado balance the heat. Enjoy these tacos with your friends for a tasty meal. For the full recipe, check the section above. To keep your spicy honey garlic shrimp fresh, let it cool first. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again later. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them gently. Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the shrimp moist. Stir it often so it heats evenly. This will help maintain its flavor and texture. If you want to store shrimp longer, freezing is a great option. First, cool the shrimp completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air before sealing it. You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste. For the full recipe, check out the details to make this tasty dish! The best way to peel shrimp is to start at the head. Hold the body and gently pull off the shell. You can also pinch the tail to detach it. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back. Use a small knife or toothpick to pull out the dark vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water after. This step helps clean them well. Yes, you can make Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat them in a skillet. This helps keep their flavor bright and tasty. You can serve Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp with several delicious sides. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice. It soaks up the sauce well. You can also try it with quinoa for a healthier option. Fresh veggies or a crisp salad add color and crunch. For more details on the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. In this blog post, we explored the complete guide to making Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp. We covered the ingredients, including substitutions and nutritional info. You learned step-by-step instructions for prep and cooking, adjusted for shrimp sizes. The tips shared help you choose the best shrimp and achieve perfect flavor. We also discussed tasty variations and storage tips for leftovers. Remember, you can find the full recipe for Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp linked in this post. Enjoy cooking and sharing your delicious dish!](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cf05c4bf-72ca-4483-afe2-f2d6fc570350-768x768.webp)
![To make a Spicy Chickpea Buddha Bowl, you need the following main ingredients: - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spiciness) - Salt and black pepper, to taste - 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 2 cups vegetable broth (or water) - 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 ripe avocado, sliced - 1/4 cup tahini - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish These ingredients blend well to give you a burst of flavor. The chickpeas add protein, while the sweet potato brings sweetness. Quinoa provides a hearty base, and the veggies add freshness. You can enhance your bowl with these optional toppings: - Feta cheese, crumbled - Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds - Fresh herbs like parsley or basil - Sliced radishes for crunch - Hot sauce for extra heat These toppings let you customize each bowl. They add flavor, texture, and nutrition. This Buddha bowl offers great health perks: - Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber. - Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C. - Quinoa is a complete protein and gluten-free. - Spinach packs iron and antioxidants. - Avocado provides healthy fats for heart health. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal. You get energy, nutrients, and delicious flavors. For the full recipe, click here: [Full Recipe]. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix the drained chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss until every chickpea gets the spice mix. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 20-25 minutes. Shake the pan halfway through to make sure they cook evenly. While the chickpeas roast, take a separate baking sheet for the sweet potatoes. Toss the diced sweet potato in olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper. Place the sweet potatoes in the oven alongside the chickpeas. Roast for about 25-30 minutes. Stir them once to help them caramelize and soften. Next, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth or water. Bring it to a boil on high heat. Once it boils, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. When done, the quinoa should be fluffy and all the liquid absorbed. Remove it from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff it gently with a fork. For the tahini dressing, whisk together tahini, fresh lemon juice, and a few tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Keep whisking until smooth. Adjust the water to make it drizzle easily. Season with salt to taste. To assemble, take a serving bowl and add a generous scoop of fluffy quinoa as the base. Next, layer on the roasted sweet potatoes, crispy chickpeas, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and slices of avocado. Make it colorful for a beautiful presentation! Drizzle your tahini dressing over the assembled bowls. Let it cascade down the ingredients for a lovely effect. Top it off with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve right away and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this wholesome meal! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. You can make this bowl your own. Try different grains like brown rice or farro. Add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots for color and crunch. If you love heat, add jalapeños or chili flakes. You can swap chickpeas for black beans for a different taste. Enjoy your personal twist on this spicy chickpea Buddha bowl. The cooking time can change based on your oven. If your oven runs hot, check the chickpeas and sweet potatoes early. You want them crispy but not burnt. If you prefer softer veggies, roast them longer. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Adjusting the time helps you get the best texture. Serve this bowl warm for the best taste. Pair it with a crisp green salad for balance. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for creaminess. This bowl is perfect for meal prep. Just store each element separately. When ready to eat, combine them for a quick, healthy meal. You can find the full recipe here: [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} This dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Chickpeas, quinoa, and veggies make it great for all. You don’t need to change the recipe to fit these diets. Just enjoy! You can switch out chickpeas for black beans or lentils. Try brown rice instead of quinoa. Sweet potatoes can be replaced with butternut squash. Each swap brings a new flavor. Use seasonal veggies for freshness. In spring, add asparagus or peas. In summer, use zucchini or bell peppers. In fall, try roasted Brussels sprouts or pumpkin. In winter, root veggies shine. These changes keep your Buddha bowl exciting. Check the full recipe for more ideas. To keep your Spicy Chickpea Buddha Bowl fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will meld, making it even tastier the next day! When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in a few ways. The microwave works well for quick meals. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If you prefer, you can also use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep it moist while you warm it up. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the chickpeas and sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe bag. Keep the quinoa and fresh veggies separate. They freeze best when stored this way. You can freeze the chickpeas and sweet potatoes for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal anytime, even when you're busy! For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber. They help you feel full longer. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals. Eating chickpeas can boost heart health and aid digestion. They may help regulate blood sugar levels too. Plus, they are versatile and fit in many dishes. Yes, you can make parts of the Spicy Chickpea Buddha Bowl ahead of time. You can roast the chickpeas and sweet potatoes a day before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. You can also cook the quinoa in advance. Just reheat it when you are ready to assemble the bowl. If you don’t have tahini, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter. You can also make a quick dressing with yogurt or avocado. Each option brings a unique flavor to the bowl. Feel free to experiment and find what you like best! To change the spice level, adjust the cayenne pepper amount in the recipe. If you prefer it milder, use less or skip it entirely. For more heat, add extra cayenne or some hot sauce. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Absolutely! You can include any veggies you love. Roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. Fresh ingredients like cucumber or radishes add crunch. Mix and match to create your ideal bowl. The more colors, the better it looks and tastes! The Spicy Chickpea Buddha Bowl packs flavor and nutrition. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step prep, and tips for easy customizations. You can adjust the heat, swap ingredients, or even try new seasonal veggies. In the end, this meal is fun to make and eat. It supports your health and keeps well, too. Dive into your own bowl and enjoy the amazing taste and benefits!](https://goldendishy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/fbd17ced-051b-409f-8c76-69a7b070695a-768x768.webp)
