Slow Cooker or Stove Top

And orzo pasta replacements!

When the season changes and there is a chill in the air, we all crave a bowl of warm soup. I've livened up a classic chicken noodle soup and turned it into the most delicious bright comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup!

Orzo Pasta Replacement:

So what is Orzo exactly? Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta. People often confuse it with rice, but it is pasta. Its versatility makes it perfect in soups, salads, and casseroles, adding a fabulous texture to various dishes. If you don't have Orzo on hand, don't worry! There are plenty of Orzo pasta replacements that work beautifully here. Any small soup or pasta would be perfect, and here are some other orzo pasta replacements. Just note that the cooking times will vary based on what you choose. But whichever you choose, you will know it’s done when it’s tender or al dente. So go with the package instructions and take a couple of minutes off the cooking time. You don’t want a mushy pasta here;)

Orzo Pasta Replacement:

1. MACARONI PASTA

• FREGOLA PASTA (or any small pasta shape sometimes referred to as soup pastas)

• SPAGHETTI (broken into smaller pieces)

• QUINOA

• PEARL BARLEY

• WHITE OR BROWN RICE

Now, Back to the Chicken Soup using Orzo:

This lemon chicken orzo soup is great because you can make it in a slow-cooker or on the stovetop. You can change up the veggies or even add leftover vegetables. Note: If they are already cooked, add them at the end and just warm them through.

Want more Veggies in this Orzo Recipe? You can also add a bag of frozen vegetables to the soup for even more vegetables in your Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup.

The lemon livens up the soup with a fresh, irresistible twist. I love it! If you are unsure how lemony you will like, start by adding a big squeeze, and add more after tasting if you’d like a bold lemon flavor.

To make it vegetarian, use vegetable stock and more Orzo and omit the chicken.