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Pesto Chicken Orzo Soup

Pesto Chicken Orzo Soup
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Pesto Chicken Orzo Soup is a comforting and nourishing meal perfect for chilly days. Combining fragrant pesto, tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables, this soup balances creamy textures and vibrant, zesty flavors. It’s quick and easy to prepare, versatile to dietary preferences, and ideal for weeknight dinners or sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Pesto and Cheese

  • 1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Broth and Vegetables

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups fresh spinach leaves

Oils and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and aromatic. Then add the diced chicken pieces and cook until they turn white and begin to brown slightly.
  2. Add broth and cook the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the orzo pasta, letting it cook until tender but still slightly firm, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in pesto and spinach: Reduce heat to low and add the pesto along with fresh spinach leaves. Allow the spinach to wilt slowly, infusing the soup with its beautiful color and nutrients.
  4. Finish with Parmesan and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese to add creaminess and depth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute to combine all the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh pesto for brighter, more vibrant flavors.
  • Don’t overcook the orzo to maintain slight firmness.
  • Shred the chicken instead of dicing for a comforting texture.
  • Sauté onions and garlic to add depth to the soup base.
  • Add Parmesan cheese last to prevent curdling and keep texture smooth.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto chicken orzo soup, easy chicken soup, comforting soup, quick dinner, Italian soup, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/pesto-chicken-orzo-soup/