Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
When you try this Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The bright lemon flavor combined with tender chicken and hearty orzo creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul.
It’s incredibly easy to whip up in the Instant Pot, saving me time on busy weeknights. Plus, the creamy texture makes each spoonful feel indulgent, even though it’s nutritious.
I love that it’s versatile; I can easily swap in whatever veggies I’ve on hand. Trust me, this soup will become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
When it comes to whipping up a cozy bowl of soup, nothing quite beats the warmth and comfort of Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty yet invigorating. The bright zing of lemon mixed with tender chicken and the satisfying bite of orzo pasta makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug.
Plus, it’s super easy to make in the Instant Pot, which means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. So, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
- 1 lb chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 sprig rosemary
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Now, before you run off to the store, let’s chat about a few things regarding these ingredients. First off, if you don’t have grapeseed oil, don’t sweat it. Olive oil works just fine; it may even add a nice flavor twist.
And while fresh chicken is great, rotisserie chicken can be a lifesaver for those nights when you’re short on time. Just shred it, and you’re ready to go.
As for the veggies, feel free to swap out what you have on hand—zucchini or peas could work beautifully in this recipe too. Just remember, the key here is to keep it fun and flexible, so you can make it your own while still enjoying that zesty lemon goodness.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Making Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is as simple as pie, or should I say, soup? It’s a breeze, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it every week.
First, you’ll want to grab your trusty Instant Pot and set it to SAUTE mode. Pour in 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil (but hey, if you only have olive oil, that’s totally cool too) and let it heat up a bit. Toss in 1 medium onion, diced, along with 3 minced garlic cloves. Give it a good stir and let those flavors mingle for about two minutes. It’ll smell amazing, and you might find yourself doing a little happy dance in the kitchen.
Next up, it’s time to add the star of the show—1 pound of chicken cut into bite-sized pieces. Stir that around and let it sauté for about three minutes until it’s starting to brown.
Now, this is where the magic really begins. Add in 2 cups of diced carrots, 2 stalks of diced celery, and 1 cup of uncooked orzo pasta. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper, and then pour in 8 cups of chicken broth. Give everything a good stir and make certain those orzo pieces are all happy and swimming in the broth.
Once that’s done, press Cancel on your Instant Pot, close the lid, and make sure the vent is in the sealing position. Set it to Pressure Cook on high for 6 minutes.
When the Instant Pot beeps to let you know it’s finished, you’ll want to do a quick release of the pressure. It’s like letting out a big sigh of relief. Carefully open the lid, and don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf and rosemary sprig—nobody wants to munch on those.
Now, stir in 1/2 cup of frozen spinach and the juice of 1 lemon. Just imagine the zing of that lemon brightening everything up! Press Sauté again and let it come to a quick boil for about a minute, then stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. This is where your soup transforms into a creamy, dreamy delight.
Serve it up with a sprinkle of 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, and there you have it—your cozy bowl of lemony goodness. And trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be tempted to make it every single week, or at least until the orzo runs out. Enjoy!
Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Substitutions & Variations
Although I love the classic Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, I often find myself experimenting with substitutions and variations to keep things fresh.
For a lighter version, I swap heavy cream for coconut milk or Greek yogurt. If I’m out of orzo, I use quinoa or rice instead.
Sometimes, I add beans for extra protein or toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini or kale. When I crave a spicier kick, a dash of red pepper flakes does the trick.
Ultimately, I’ve even tried using different herbs, like thyme or dill, to create unique flavor profiles.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Have you ever wondered what pairs perfectly with a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup? I love to serve it with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a revitalizing touch, balancing the richness of the soup. For something heartier, I sometimes whip up garlic bread, which complements the lemony flavors beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for a little indulgence, a slice of lemon cheesecake can make for a delightful dessert to finish off the meal. Enjoy your cozy dining experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing your Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind for the best results.
First, don’t add the heavy cream until you’re ready to serve; it keeps the soup fresh and prevents curdling. If you plan to make it ahead, store the cream separately.
Also, remember that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so adjust the broth to your desired consistency.
Finally, feel free to customize the veggies or add more lemon juice for extra zing. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own!