Crock Pot Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

This Crock Pot Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup is the kind of easy, cozy dinner you’ll want to make all year long. Tender shredded chicken, vegetables, delicate orzo, fresh spinach, and plenty of bright lemon simmer together for a comforting soup that tastes like it took much more effort than it actually did.

The crock pot does most of the work, making this a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, especially when you want something warm and homemade waiting for you at dinner time.

I’m not sure about you, but as soon as I feel the slightest chill in the air I start craving a cozy soup. This take on the classic chicken noodle soup hits the spot every time! I love the addition of spinach and the pop of brightness from fresh lemon juice.

Plus this Chicken Orzo Soup freezes well. It’s great for meal prep for the week or for a cold, lazy Sunday afternoon.

If you are craving more crock pot soups, try this easy Chicken Enchilada Soup, Butternut Squash Soup, Cozy Chicken Parmesan Soup, and a classic- Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Orzo Soup

• Easy to make: Just add the chicken and vegetables to the crock pot and let it cook.
• Bright and flavorful: Fresh lemon juice adds a delicious pop of flavor.
• Family friendly: Tender chicken, mild vegetables, and small orzo pasta make this an easy dinner everyone can enjoy.
• A complete meal: Chicken, vegetables, pasta, and spinach all come together in one bowl.
• Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, although you may need to add extra broth because the orzo absorbs liquid as it sits.

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced thin or diced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced thin or diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 large handfuls fresh spinach
• 1–2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Crock Pot Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

1. Add everything except the orzo, spinach and lemon.

Place the chicken breasts, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and thyme into your crock pot.

Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

2. Shred the chicken.

Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.

3. Add the orzo.

Stir in the orzo. Cover and cook on HIGH for about 20–30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender.

4. Add the spinach and lemon.

Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt for 2–3 minutes.

Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the soup. Taste and add more lemon juice if you’d like a stronger lemon flavor.

5. Finish and serve.

Stir in the fresh parsley and serve warm with an extra squeeze of lemon, if desired.

Tips for the Best Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

Don’t add the orzo at the beginning. Orzo cooks quickly and can become mushy if it sits in the crock pot for several hours. Adding it near the end keeps the pasta tender.

Make it extra lemony. Start with the juice of one lemon and add more to taste. You can also add a little fresh lemon zest for even more bright citrus flavor.

Keep an eye on the orzo. Crock pots can vary, so start checking it around the 20-minute mark once you’ve added the pasta.

Add extra broth when reheating. The orzo will continue to absorb the broth as the soup sits. Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating leftovers to bring the soup back to the right consistency.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and will give the soup an even richer flavor.

Can I use another pasta?

Yes. Small pasta shapes such as ditalini or small shells can work in place of orzo. Cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on the pasta.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. Just remember that the orzo will absorb some of the broth as it sits. Add additional chicken broth when reheating if needed.

Can I freeze this soup?

You can, but the orzo may become softer after freezing and reheating. If you know you’ll be freezing the soup, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it to individual servings when you’re ready to eat.

What to Serve With Lemony Chicken Orzo Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with crusty bread, garlic bread, a simple green salad, or homemade dinner rolls.

More Cozy Soup Recipes

• Beef Stew with Mini Pierogi
• Ham and Potato Soup
• Chicken Ramen
• Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
• Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana
• White Chicken Chili
• Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Minestrone Soup
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup