Name: Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale (optional); Juice of ½ lemon; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish; Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)

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Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, al dente orzo pasta, and a rich tomato broth. With a base of herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon, this cozy soup is hearty enough for dinner yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the perfect balance of savory, bright, and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with pantry staples, and packed with protein and flavor—ideal for weeknight meals, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving a nourishing bowl of soup.

Quick and easy one-pot meal
Full of familiar, family-friendly flavors
Great for leftovers and freezer-friendly
Naturally dairy-free and easy to make gluten-free
Light yet hearty with lean protein and pasta

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Orzo pasta
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Onion, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Carrots, diced
Celery, chopped
Chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
Olive oil
Dried basil
Dried oregano
Bay leaf
Salt and black pepper
Lemon juice (for brightness)
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well.
Add whole chicken breasts or thighs and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Add the orzo and simmer for another 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Stir in lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a slice of crusty bread if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
Add Greens: Toss in spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and use white beans or chickpeas with veggie broth.
Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
This soup also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, cook orzo separately and add when reheating to prevent mushiness.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add shredded cooked chicken after the orzo has cooked and warm through.

Does the orzo get mushy in leftovers?

It can. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it when serving.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes. Use the sauté function for the veggies, then pressure cook the chicken in broth and tomatoes for 10 minutes, quick release, shred chicken, add orzo on sauté until cooked.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, though you’ll need to simmer a bit longer to break them down.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Absolutely—it’s mild, comforting, and easy to eat.

What herbs go best with this soup?

Parsley, basil, thyme, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning all work well.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, a sprinkle of Parmesan on top is a great addition.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, but for best texture, freeze without the orzo and add fresh when reheating.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What can I serve with this soup?

Try garlic bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a deliciously cozy, nourishing dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or just need an easy, wholesome meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot—every time.

Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup