Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Isn’t it funny how a simple bowl of soup can transport you to a place of warmth and comfort?” When I first made Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup, I was looking for an easy dinner that would soothe my hectic day. What I discovered was a magical blend of tender shredded chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a rich tomato base that felt like a hug in a bowl. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between being low-calorie and incredibly satisfying—ideal for anyone craving homemade goodness without the fuss. With just a few pantry staples and the flexibility to cater to dietary preferences, you’ll want to keep this gem in your cookbook rotation. Curious about how to whip up this cozy meal and perhaps create a nostalgia-inducing masterpiece in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details! Why is Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup a Must-Try? Comforting Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave something homemade. Rich, Flavorful Base: The combination of garlic, tomato, and Italian seasonings creates a savory broth that’s impossible to resist. Versatile Variations: Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or a vegetarian twist, this soup easily adapts to fit your dietary needs. Try it with Butter Chicken Comfort or Parmesan Chicken Transforms for delightful taste adventures! Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, you’ll be serving a delicious dinner in no time, making it a stellar choice for hectic weeknights. Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Suitable for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this soup warms hearts and bellies, making it a hit at any table. Your new go-to comfort food awaits! Enjoy the warm embrace of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup today! Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Olive Oil – Base for sautéing garlic; can easily substitute with canola oil or butter for a different flavor. • Garlic – Provides fragrant aroma and depth; fresh or minced works wonderfully in this dish. • Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor for richness; crushed tomatoes can be used but may require liquid adjustments. • Italian Seasoning – Adds a delightful blend of herbs; feel free to replace with dried basil and oregano for a personalized touch. • Chicken Broth – Rich foundation for the soup; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian variation to enjoy this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. For the Soup Additions • Orzo Pasta – The comforting main carbohydrate; swaps nicely with ditalini or other small pasta if desired. • Shredded Chicken – Packs in protein and texture; using rotisserie chicken can save you precious time in the kitchen. • Heavy Cream – Adds a luscious finish to the soup; for a lighter touch, consider half-and-half or omit for a dairy-free option. • Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors and balances richness; this ingredient is key for that fresh, zesty kick. Optional Toppings • Grated Parmesan – Adds a salty, nutty finish; sprinkle on top just before serving for that extra touch of flavor. • Herbs – Fresh parsley or basil can elevate presentation and taste; a must-try for an aromatic boost. • Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to your taste preference for an exciting twist. Now that you’ve gathered the essentials, let’s get cooking and create a bowlful of warmth with this delightful Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Step 1: Sauté Garlic In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned, as you want to avoid bitterness. Step 2: Cook Tomato Paste Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it darkens slightly and develops a rich aroma. This caramelization deepens the flavor of your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. Step 3: Add Broth Gradually pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine with the tomato mixture. Season with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the broth can vary in saltiness. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing the delicious scents to fill your kitchen. Step 4: Incorporate Orzo Add 1 cup of orzo to the simmering broth and stir well. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but still al dente. Keep an eye on it to ensure the pasta doesn’t overcook and the soup maintains its comforting texture. Step 5: Add Chicken and Cream Once the orzo is ready, stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken, allowing it to warm through for about 2-3 minutes. Then, pour in ½ cup of heavy cream for a luscious finish. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy, making your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup feel extra indulgent. Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice Remove the pot from heat and squeeze in the juice of 1 fresh lemon. This brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the soup. Taste and adjust any seasonings if needed, ensuring every spoonful is just right. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Serve this delightful Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup immediately, accompanied by crusty bread for a truly comforting meal. Expert Tips for Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Sauté with Care: To achieve the best garlic flavor, sauté until fragrant but avoid browning. This prevents bitterness in your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. Season Wisely: Always taste your broth before seasoning, as different brands can have varying salt levels. Adjust for the perfect flavor balance. Texture Maintenance: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of broth to adjust the texture if necessary. Pasta Precautions: Watch the orzo while it cooks; overcooked pasta can make your soup mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain that comforting texture. Vibrant Finish: Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice! It brightens the flavors, making your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup even more refreshing and delightful. Storage Tips for Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious on the second day! Freezer: This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, but note that the texture may slightly change upon thawing. Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid separating the cream. Add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed. Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance for busy nights. It’s a comforting meal that only gets better after resting, ready to warm your heart and home! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the soup base by sautéing the garlic, cooking the tomato paste, and adding the broth up to 24 hours in advance (refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container). Before serving, simply reheat the soup, bring it to a simmer, and stir in the orzo, shredded chicken, and heavy cream for a freshly made flavor that remains just as delicious. To maintain quality, avoid cooking the orzo until you’re ready to serve, as it tends to absorb too much liquid. With this make-ahead strategy, your cozy Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup can be ready with minimal effort! What to Serve with Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of this soup. Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crusty exterior and soft inside will sop up the rich broth wonderfully. Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the soup perfectly, adding an irresistible crunch to each bite. Mixed Green Salad: A bright, crisp salad with tangy dressing balances the soup’s richness, offering a refreshing crunch to your meal. Parmesan Crisps: These cheesy, baked crackers add a delightful crunch and a salty kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup. Pesto Swirls: A dollop of pesto on top offers an herby freshness that brightens the comforting flavors of the Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. Zesty Lemonade: A cool, refreshing drink contrasts beautifully with the warm soup, enhancing the flavors with its citrus notes. Serve these alongside your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup for a complete and satisfying dining experience that warms the heart! Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this comforting dish to suit your tastes! Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with small gluten-free pasta or beans for a hearty alternative that everyone can enjoy. Gluten-free pasta options like rice pasta or quinoa pasta work beautifully here! Vegetarian Delight: Replace shredded chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or chickpeas, and opt for vegetable broth to create a nourishing vegan version. This swap will still pack a flavorful punch! Creamy Alternatives: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free twist that adds a hint of sweetness to your soup. You won’t miss the creaminess! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary during cooking for reinvented flavor notes. Adding fresh basil just before serving brightens the dish magnificently! Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring up the heat level, making your chicken orzo soup exciting for those who love a little spice! Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost and vibrant green color—it’s a win-win for both taste and health! Comforting Add-Ins: Enhance the texture with frozen peas or corn; simply add them alongside the orzo, as they’ll cook quickly and infuse a touch of sweetness. Global Flavors: Add a dash of soy sauce or miso to incorporate umami richness, reminiscent of Asian-inspired broths. For a Mediterranean flair, olives and feta cheese can elevate the dish even further. Now, you’re ready to put your spin on this delightful Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup! Consider trying it alongside a Bbq Chicken Mac for a comforting dinner experience or enjoy it with a side of Chicken Broccoli Savory for a deliciously balanced meal! Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best garlic for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting garlic, look for firm bulbs with tight, dry skins. Avoid any bulbs with dark spots or sprouting, as these may indicate age. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor and aroma, elevating your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup to new heights. How should I store leftovers of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify as they meld overnight, giving you an even tastier soup the next day! Reheat gently on low heat to keep the cream from separating. Can I freeze Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup for up to 2 months! Just let it cool completely before ladling it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth if necessary to achieve the desired texture. What can I do if my soup is too thick after reheating? If your soup thickens too much during refrigeration or reheating, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water over low heat, stirring to combine until it reaches your preferred consistency. This will help bring life back to your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. Is this recipe suitable for pets or those with garlic allergies? Unfortunately, garlic is not safe for pets, so please keep this soup away from your furry friends! If you or someone at your table has a garlic allergy, consider using garlic-infused oil or omitting it altogether, adding extra Italian seasoning to retain flavor in your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. What are some great substitutes for orzo if I need a gluten-free option? Not a problem! For a gluten-free twist, you can use small gluten-free pasta shapes like quinoa pasta or ditalini. Alternatively, you could even add cooked, canned beans for added protein and heartiness in your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup. Cozy Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup for Ultimate Comfort This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is the perfect dish for ultimate comfort, blending tender chicken with orzo and a rich tomato base. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Base for sautéing garlic; can substitute with canola oil or butter3 cloves Garlic Fresh or minced2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Intensifies tomato flavor; can use crushed tomatoes1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Can replace with dried basil and oregano6 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian optionFor the Soup Additions1 cup Orzo Pasta Can swap with ditalini or other small pasta2 cups Shredded Chicken Using rotisserie chicken can save time½ cup Heavy Cream For a lighter touch, use half-and-half or omit1 unit Fresh Lemon Juice Key for that fresh, zesty kickOptional Toppings¼ cup Grated Parmesan Sprinkle on top before servingFresh Herbs Parsley or basil for garnishto taste Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste for heat Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until it darkens slightly and develops a rich aroma.Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine, and season with salt to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer.Add 1 cup of orzo to the broth and stir. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 10 minutes until tender but al dente.Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken and warm for 2-3 minutes. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and stir until well combined.Remove from heat and squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid cream separation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
