Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

 This was my second recipe I've tried from Damn Delicious and she's not lying it really is delicious! This soup is perfect for warmer months too because it is so light and the lemon makes it very refreshing. YUM!

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
5 c. chicken stock
2 bay leaves
3/4 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1 sprig rosemary
Juice of 1 lemon
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

Heat 1 Tbsp. olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, to taste. Add chicken to the stockpot and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes; set aside.

Add remaining 1 Tbsp. oil to the stockpot. Stir in garlic, onion, carrots and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Whisk in chicken stock, bay leaves and 1 c. water; bring to a boil. Stir in orzo, rosemary and chicken; reduce heat and simmer until orzo is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and parsley; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately.

Picture and Recipe from Damn Delicious