Looking for a delicious and healthy soup option? Look no further than 1 cup Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup! With just 370 calories per serving, this soup is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt.

Not only is this soup low in calories, it's also packed full of nutrients. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the orzo and vegetables deliver plenty of fiber and vitamins. Plus, the zesty lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist to this classic comfort food.

In this article, we'll explore some great serving suggestions for Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, as well as its rich history and varied regional versions. We'll also take a look at some potential health concerns related to this soup, as well as its many benefits for your overall well-being.

Ingredients list

To make 1 cup of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
• 1/2 cup cooked orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Nutritional value

Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value for 1 cup of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup:

• calories: 370
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 660mg

Serving suggestions

Wondering how to enjoy your 1 cup of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? Here are some great serving suggestions to try:

• Pair with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal
• Enjoy with a crusty piece of bread for a heartier option
• Add some grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor
• Serve with a lemon wedge for a zesty finish

Preparation method

Ready to make your own Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? Follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot, saute the garlic and onion over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the carrots and celery, and saute until tender.
3. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add the cooked chicken and orzo to the pot, and heat through.
6. Enjoy!

Benefits of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

There are many benefits to incorporating Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup into your diet, including:

• Low calorie option for a filling meal
• Good source of protein and fiber
• Packed with vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables and broth
• Refreshing lemon flavor for a unique twist on traditional chicken soup

Health concerns related to Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

While Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a healthy and delicious option for many, there are a few potential health concerns to keep in mind:

• High sodium content can be problematic for individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular issues
• Orzo pasta is a source of refined carbohydrates, which can lead to blood sugar spikes for some individuals
• Chicken broth may contain hidden sources of gluten, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance

History of the dish

Though the exact origins of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup are uncertain, it is generally believed to be a variation of traditional chicken soup with Mediterranean influences. The addition of lemon and orzo pasta is thought to have been a way to add variety and complexity to the classic recipe, and it has since become a beloved comfort food around the world.

Varied regional versions of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Like many dishes, Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup has been adapted and modified in different regions around the world. Some popular variations include:

• Greek Avgolemono Soup: This version uses orzo pasta, lemon juice, and eggs to create a creamy and tangy soup.
• Italian Chicken Orzo Soup: This version adds tomatoes and basil to the classic recipe, giving it a distinctly Italian flavor.
• Moroccan Chicken And Orzo Soup: This version adds warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Pair with complementary dishes

Looking for some great dishes to pair with your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? Here are a few complementary options to try:

• Green salad with citrus vinaigrette
• Crusty bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar dipping sauce
• Roasted vegetable platter
• Grilled chicken breast with lemon and herbs

Storage suggestions

If you've made too much Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup or want to save some for later, here are some storage tips to keep in mind:

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• To reheat, simply microwave or heat over low heat in a pot on the stove
• For longer-term storage, freeze leftover soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers
• To thaw, let soup sit in the fridge overnight, then reheat as desired