Cozy Up with Creamy Tomato Orzo Soup: A Simple & Delicious Meal
As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. This chicken orzo tomato soup is exactly that—a hug in a bowl that's both incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Think of it as a slightly more sophisticated version of a classic tomato soup, elevated with tender chicken and delicate orzo pasta. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. The best part? It comes together with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
A Symphony of Flavors
The secret to this soup’s amazing flavor lies in the base. We start by caramelizing tomato paste and garlic in olive oil, which creates a rich, savory foundation. Add some Italian seasoning, and you get a comforting aroma reminiscent of your favorite pizza. This simple step transforms the humble tomato paste into something truly special.
Key Ingredients
- Orzo Pasta: The small, rice-shaped pasta adds a delightful texture and cooks quickly in the soup.
- Chicken: Cooked chicken (rotisserie is perfect!) makes this soup hearty and satisfying. Feel free to use chicken thighs for more flavor or substitute white beans for a vegetarian option.
- Tomato Paste: This is the base of the soup's rich tomato flavor.
- Garlic & Italian Seasoning: Adds aromatics and a classic Italian flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful base to cook the soup and orzo.
- Heavy Cream: A touch of cream at the end adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture. Cashew cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a brightness that cuts through the richness of the soup.
Pesto Bread Dip Magic
To take this soup to the next level, try serving it with homemade pesto bread dips. Dunk crusty bread in thick, flavorful pesto and then dip that pesto-ed bread in the soup. The fresh basil and garlic in the pesto add a burst of flavor that complements the soup perfectly. If you have fresh basil in your garden use it, or substitute with other greens like spinach.
Customize Your Soup
One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to customize your soup:
- Greens: Wilt some spinach or kale into the soup for extra nutrients and color.
- Protein: Substitute Italian sausage for the chicken, or keep it vegetarian by adding white beans or chickpeas.
- Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Extra Flavor: Try adding a small amount of pureed roasted red pepper for an extra flavour boost.
- Cream: Use cashew cream or coconut cream as a replacement for heavy cream if required.
What to Serve With It
- Bread: Crusty bread is a must for dipping in the soup and pesto. Try a no-knead loaf for an easy homemade option.
- Salad: A simple green salad or a roasted broccoli salad makes a nice pairing to round out your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: How do I make homemade pesto? A: Simply combine toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, basil leaves, and other greens (like spinach) in a food processor. Drizzle in olive oil until it forms a sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Q: What if I don't have heavy cream? A: Whole milk can be used as a substitute, but the soup won't be as creamy. Half-and-half would be a better option, or a plant based alternative like cashew cream.
Ready to Make It?
This chicken orzo tomato soup is a winner for a reason. It’s simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting lunch, this soup is sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chopped or shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1-2 cups water as desired
- Parmesan cheese, herbs, red pepper flakes, and lemon for serving
- Bread for serving
- Pesto for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for about 5 minutes until caramelized and a deep red color.
- Gradually add the broth, mixing until smooth. Add salt to taste.
- Add the orzo and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender. If needed, add more water or broth to get your desired consistency. Stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the chicken and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan, herbs, red pepper flakes, and crusty bread. Serve with pesto for dipping (optional).