Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Cozy Up With Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of soup. But who has hours to spend simmering a pot on the stove? Not us! That’s why we’re thrilled to share our recipe for Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup – a flavorful, satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
This soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and bright, zesty lemon. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both healthy and incredibly easy to make. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
What makes this Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup so special?
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this soup takes only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, lemon, and herbs creates a bright, refreshing flavor profile.
- Healthy: Packed with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this soup is a nutritious meal the whole family will love.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup – everything cooks right in the Instant Pot!
Tips for the Best Soup:
- Don’t overcook the orzo: Orzo can become mushy if overcooked. Keep a close eye on it during the final cooking stage.
- Fresh lemon juice is key: Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same bright flavor. Use fresh lemon juice for the best results.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme to your liking.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
A: Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb some of the liquid, so you may need to add a little more broth when reheating.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: While you can freeze it, the orzo may become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
A: This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread, a simple salad, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
We hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup! It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold day.
Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 3/4 cup onion diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 3/4 cup carrot cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup celery cut into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 lb chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 1/3 cup orzo
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Turn on your instant pot, and add the oil, onion, and garlic. Saute for a few minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the chicken broth and add the chicken. Place the lid then cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, followed by a 10 minute natural pressure release.
- Shred the chicken. Stir in the orzo and lime juice. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, followed by a quick pressure release.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
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