When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, nourishing bowl of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup recipe to comfort the soul. This hearty and flavor-packed soup combines tender chicken, chewy orzo pasta, and a rich tomato broth for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy lunch or a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
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The Health Benefits of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup recipe
Not only is this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup recipe incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that provide a range of health benefits. The olive oil in the broth base is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the garlic offers immune-boosting properties. The tomato paste provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants and vitamins, and the chicken broth serves as a nourishing foundation. The orzo pasta adds wholesome carbohydrates, and the heavy cream contributes a creamy, indulgent touch. Finally, the Parmesan cheese topping offers additional flavor and a nutritional boost.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup
To make this delectable Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Sauce and Broth Base:
- 2 tablespoons DeLallo Private Reserve Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup DeLallo Tomato Paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt to taste
Pasta and Protein:
- 1 cup DeLallo Orzo Pasta
- 2 cups chopped or shredded cooked chicken (pulled rotisserie chicken meat recommended)
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 cups water as needed for desired consistency
- Parmesan cheese, herbs (such as parsley or basil), red pepper flakes, and lemon for serving
- Bread for serving
- Pesto for serving (optional; recipe notes included)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup
Preparing this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps:
- Heat Oil & Garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste & Seasoning: Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1–2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook Orzo: Add orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken: Stir in chopped or shredded cooked chicken and heat through.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 1–2 cups water as needed for desired soup consistency. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil).
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese, herbs, red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of lemon. Serve with bread and optional pesto on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
To ensure your Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Choosing the Right Chicken: Using pulled rotisserie chicken or shredded cooked chicken breasts will add great texture and flavor to the soup.
- Adjusting Creaminess and Consistency: Start with the recommended amounts of heavy cream and water, then adjust to your desired level of creaminess and soup thickness.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to customize the flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Storing and Reheating: Store any leftover Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread or roll is the perfect companion for sopping up every last drop of the delicious broth.
- Homemade Pesto: Drizzle a spoonful of fresh basil or parsley pesto over the top of the soup for an extra burst of flavor.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad or a crisp Caesar salad makes for a refreshing and complementary side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut for this recipe. The tender, flavorful chicken meat will integrate beautifully into the soup.
How long does it take to cook the orzo in the soup?
The orzo pasta cooks according to the package directions, which is typically around 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers in the broth to prevent sticking or clumping.
Can this soup be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can easily adapt this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup recipe for the slow cooker or Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, simply add all the ingredients (except the orzo and cream) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the orzo during the last 30 minutes, then stir in the cream before serving. For the Instant Pot, use the sauté function to cook the garlic and tomato paste, then add the remaining ingredients (except orzo and cream) and pressure cook for 15 minutes. Release the pressure, add the orzo, and stir in the cream.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To make this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with a plant-based milk or cream alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan cheese substitute.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Slow Cooker Parmesan Herb Chicken Orzo
- Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
- Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Wrap Up: Comforting and Nourishing Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
When the weather turns chilly, a warm and comforting bowl of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe is the perfect antidote. With its rich tomato broth, tender chicken, and chewy orzo pasta, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re craving a cozy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new household favorite. Give it a try and let us know how you enjoy it!
Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!
PrintDiscover the Comfort of Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe Today!
Comforting and Flavorful Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cup chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cup chopped or shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1–2 cup water as needed for desired consistency
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Herbs (such as parsley or basil) for serving
- Red pepper flakes for serving
- Lemon for serving
- Bread for serving
- Pesto for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. 1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. 2. Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor.
3. 3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. 4. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until tender, stirring occasionally.
5. 5. Stir in chopped or shredded cooked chicken and heat through.
6. 6. Add 1-2 cup water as needed for desired soup consistency. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil).
7. 7. Ladle soup into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese, herbs, red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of lemon. Serve with bread and optional pesto on the side.
Notes
Using pulled rotisserie chicken or shredded cooked chicken breasts will add great texture and flavor to the soup.
Start with the recommended amounts of heavy cream and water, then adjust to your desired level of creaminess and soup thickness.
Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to customize the flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, soup, orzo, tomato