📖 Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Begin by placing about 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large pot. Cover the chicken with 8 cups of water or chicken broth. Ensure there’s enough liquid to fully submerge the chicken. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Simmer the Chicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer gently for approximately 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A simple way to check is by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast.
3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks. Discard the cooking liquid or reserve it for another use.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot (after cleaning it), melt 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic!
5. Add Broth and Orzo: Pour 6 cups of chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Bring the broth to a boil, then add 1 cup of orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the orzo cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Incorporate Chicken and Lemon: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the orzo. Stir in the juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup, depending on the size and juiciness of the lemons) and the zest of 1 lemon. The lemon juice brightens the flavor and adds a delightful tang. (Not the peel as mentioned above.)
7. Season and Simmer: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust as needed. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This is a crucial step for a well-balanced soup.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Lemon Orzo and Chicken Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also add a nice touch. Serve hot and enjoy!
9. Optional Additions: Feel free to add vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor. You can also stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture, but this is entirely optional.