There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to warm you up on a chilly day, and Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Orzo Soup is the perfect way to do just that. This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a medley of spices to create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special starter to wow your guests, this soup has it all.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Orzo Soup stands out from traditional chicken soups thanks to its zesty flavor profile. The addition of chili flakes lends just the right amount of heat, balanced by the bright, citrusy notes of fresh lemon juice. Combined with the aromatic base of onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, every spoonful bursts with warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken tenderloin
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
2. Add the Broth & Chicken
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded chicken tenderloin, dried thyme, bay leaf, chili flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the Orzo
Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the orzo becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
4. Add Lemon & Adjust Seasoning
Stir in the juice of one large lemon to add a bright, tangy finish to the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
5. Serve & Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, invigorating flavors.
Tips for Customization
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether. For more heat, add a pinch more or garnish with extra chili.
- Herb options: Substitute thyme with rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different herbal touch.
- Extra veggies: Feel free to add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Why This Soup is Perfect for You
Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Orzo Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and the kick from the chili flakes makes this soup a go-to comfort dish. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for those evenings when you want something that feels special yet is simple to prepare.
Give this recipe a try, and let it become a staple in your home kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of hearty, zesty soup that warms both body and soul.
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Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Orzo Soup
Description
Warm up with a bowl of Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Orzo Soup, a comforting dish packed with a zesty kick. This wholesome soup combines tender chicken tenderloin, delicate orzo pasta, and a medley of aromatic spices for a bold flavor experience. Perfect for cozy nights or as a delightful starter, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken tenderloin
1 cup orzo pasta
6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Juice of 1 large lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Saute for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Add the Broth & Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in shredded chicken tenderloin, thyme, bay leaf, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Cook the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for another 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
Add Lemon & Adjust Seasoning:
Stir in fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if preferred.
Serve & Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and savor the spicy, refreshing flavors.