30-Minute Easy Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup: A Warm, Comforting Bowl of Bliss Packed with Tender Chicken

If you're craving a quick, creamy, and absolutely delicious soup that's both hearty and comforting, this 30-Minute Easy Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup is the perfect choice. Packed with shredded rotisserie chicken, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, this soup comes together in just half an hour! It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you need something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Every spoonful offers a rich, creamy broth with flavors that will leave you coming back for more.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind This Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup

Creamy chicken soups are a classic comfort food, but this version takes it up a notch by incorporating delicate orzo pasta, a rich and velvety broth, and the aromatic flavors of Italian herbs and garlic. The use of rotisserie chicken makes this recipe incredibly convenient, while the addition of balsamic vinegar at the end adds a subtle tang that balances out the creaminess. This soup is the perfect balance of rich flavors and hearty textures, making it a go-to recipe for any time of year.

Why You'll Fall in Love With This Recipe

Not only is this soup quick and easy to prepare, but it's also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a complete meal. The tender chicken adds a protein punch, while the orzo pasta provides satisfying texture in every bite. The creamy broth is infused with garlic, sage, and Italian seasoning, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors that feels indulgent yet light enough for any occasion. Plus, this soup is versatile enough to be customized with your favorite veggies or extra seasonings!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 21g
• Sodium: 990mg
• Fiber: 3g

This soup is filling on its own but can also be paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This creamy chicken orzo soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a light salad for a balanced meal. For an extra indulgent experience, try serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of homemade cornbread. You can also garnish it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or extra chives for an added layer of flavor and texture. And for dessert, consider something light like lemon sorbet or a fruit salad to round out the meal.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits, so when reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire pot on the stove over low heat. This soup also freezes well—just store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

Fun Fact: The Versatility of Orzo Pasta

Orzo, which means "barley" in Italian, is a small pasta shaped like a grain of rice. While it's often used in soups, orzo can also be served in salads, casseroles, and even as a side dish. Its small size allows it to absorb the flavors of whatever dish it’s added to, making it a versatile and beloved ingredient in many Mediterranean and Italian dishes.

Cooking Tips

• Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker, creamier soup, feel free to add more heavy cream, or even a dollop of cream cheese to the broth. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute with half-and-half.
• Add Extra Veggies: While this recipe includes carrots, celery, and onions, you can customize it by adding mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, swap out the dried Italian seasoning for fresh thyme or basil. It will enhance the flavor and freshness of the soup!

Optional Variations

• Lemon Zest: For a bright, citrusy note, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the soup along with the balsamic vinegar.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for some extra spice.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth and replace the shredded chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a protein-packed vegetarian version.

Creamy Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 8 cups chicken stock (or chicken broth)
• 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper
• Sliced chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat in a large pot.
2. Add 1 cup diced onion, 1 cup sliced carrot, 1 cup sliced celery, along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 6 minutes.
3. Add 6 cloves minced garlic, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon ground sage, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add 4 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add a couple splashes of chicken stock to the pot until it cleans the bottom of the pan.
6. Add what is remaining of the 8 cups chicken stock, 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper.
7. Turn heat to medium-high, cover the pot, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, over low heat for about 5 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir every couple of minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
8. Stir in 1.5 cups heavy cream and 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with sliced chives and enjoy!

This creamy chicken orzo soup is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it up for a cozy weekend lunch, it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. And with its creamy texture and delicious, savory flavors, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your household!