Name: Hearty Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch pieces; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ yellow onion, chopped; 3 carrots, sliced into half-circles; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground oregano; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 5 cups chicken broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 3 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley; 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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There’s something deeply satisfying about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it strikes the perfect balance between hearty and wholesome. Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is a rich and comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and creamy orzo pasta in a tomato-infused broth. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out—ideal for cozy evenings, family dinners, or meal prep for a busy week ahead.

What makes this soup stand out is its thoughtful layering of flavors. You begin by sautéing chicken for a savory base, then build flavor with garlic, onions, carrots, and a touch of spice from red pepper flakes. The crushed tomatoes and chicken broth create a velvety foundation, while orzo adds a satisfying texture. Finally, fresh parsley, basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan bring a bright and herby finish. It’s easy to make, full of nutrients, and far more rewarding than anything you could pour out of a can. Whether you’re feeding a family or seeking a nourishing solo meal, this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup offers comfort and nourishment in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Simplicity

Everything cooks in a single pot, which means less mess and easier cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights.

2. Full of Flavor

Aromatic herbs, spices, and sautéed chicken deliver deep, comforting flavors that taste like they’ve simmered all day.

3. Nutrient-Rich

Packed with lean protein, veggies, and whole grains, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

4. Customizable

Easily adaptable with different herbs, vegetables, or pasta varieties depending on what you have on hand.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking and lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

Olive oil
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt
Ground pepper
Yellow onion
Carrots
Garlic
Ground oregano
Red pepper flakes
Crushed tomatoes
Chicken broth
Orzo pasta
Flat-leaf parsley
Fresh basil
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Variations

Use Chicken Thighs: Swap in boneless, skinless thighs for richer flavor and extra tenderness.
Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken; add chickpeas or white beans instead.
Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Go Gluten-Free: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
Boost with Cream: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat half of the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté onions and carrots until softened. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add orzo to the pot and cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Herbs

Return cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in parsley and basil. Simmer for a few more minutes to meld flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Stir the orzo frequently as it cooks to prevent clumping or sticking to the bottom.
Add salt gradually, tasting as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving—it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Use fresh herbs at the end for a burst of flavor; dried herbs can be added earlier in the cooking process.

How to Serve

This soup is a meal in itself, but pairs beautifully with:

Warm crusty bread or garlic toast
A light green salad with vinaigrette
Grilled cheese or panini sandwiches
A side of roasted vegetables for a heartier meal
A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions without the orzo (which can become mushy). Add freshly cooked orzo when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened in storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well—add it during the final 5–10 minutes of simmering.

2. Does the orzo need to be pre-cooked?

No, it cooks directly in the soup, absorbing flavor from the broth.

3. Can I use another pasta?

Absolutely—small shapes like ditalini, elbows, or even rice can work as substitutes.

4. Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to your taste or omit entirely.

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—cook chicken and vegetables first, then combine all ingredients (except orzo and herbs) in the slow cooker. Add orzo during the last 30 minutes.

6. How can I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer longer uncovered or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste or cream.

7. Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes—substitute with about one-third the amount of dried herbs, but fresh herbs are recommended for the finish.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely—zucchini, celery, or bell peppers are great additions.

9. How do I make this dairy-free?

Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

10. What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Reheat on low heat and add extra broth to maintain moisture and texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup is everything you want in a homemade soup—comforting, nutritious, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re seeking a warm meal for a chilly night or prepping your lunches for the week, this recipe delivers in every way. Its balance of protein, vegetables, and pasta makes it both filling and satisfying, while the simple preparation ensures it can fit into even the busiest schedule. Keep this recipe in your rotation for whenever you need a reliable, cozy dish that everyone will love.