Copycat Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

I fell in love with this seasonal soup last summer while it was at that famous fancy sandwich shop, and I was determined to recreate it. It's an easy soup to make and it's been a huge favorite in our house ever since. I make it almost weekly. Don't tell that fancy sandwich shop, but I think this is actually better than theirs! Garnish with fresh lemon slices.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Calories: 204 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt (Optional)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 stalks chopped celery
• 2 cooked skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• ½ (10 ounce) bag fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 6 baby carrots, diced into bite-sized pieces

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine chicken broth, chicken breasts, spinach, carrots, celery, orzo pasta, basil, oregano, pepper, and salt in a large stockpot over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables and pasta are tender, about 30 minutes.

Step 2

Add lemon juice in small amounts, stirring well and tasting after each addition to adjust flavor.