Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in creating a dish that feels like home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover roast chicken works beautifully)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Substitution Tip: If orzo isn’t available, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice can be used for a delightful twist.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to bring this heartwarming soup to life:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, allowing the herbs to release their aroma and enhance the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken and orzo pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice just before serving, adding a bright, fresh note.
Personal Tip: For an extra touch of love, stir the soup occasionally while it simmers, whispering a sweet thought or memory into the pot. It’s a little tradition from Nonna Rosa that always makes the meal feel special.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
