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Crockpot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This crockpot lemon chicken orzo soup is cozy, fresh, and super easy. Toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. The lemon gives it a bright pop, the orzo makes it feel fancy, and the kids actually eat it without complaining (most days). Perfect for cold days, busy nights, or when you just need something warm and chill.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Orzo Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 bowls
Author Fareeha

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
  • 1 cup carrots chopped
  • 1 cup celery chopped
  • 1 small onion , chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced or smashed
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta
  • Juice from 1 to 2 lemons about 1/4 cup
  • Zest of 1 lemon optional but adds more zing
  • 2 handfuls of fresh spinach
  • Lemon slices optional for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Load the crockpot

  • Add chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, broth, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil into the crockpot. Give it a quick stir.

Step 2: Cook it slow

  • Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 3: Shred the chicken

  • Take out the chicken and shred with two forks. Toss it back in the soup.

Step 4: Add the orzo

  • Pour in the orzo pasta. Cook on high for 20–30 minutes more. Stir a few times so the pasta does not stick to the bottom.

Step 5: Add lemon and greens

  • Squeeze in the lemon juice. Add lemon zest if using. Stir in the spinach until it wilts. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then serve.

Notes

Tips:

  • If you like thicker soup, use less broth. Want it brothy? Add more.
  • Stir occasionally after adding orzo to keep it from clumping.
  • Taste before serving. You can always add more lemon or salt if needed.
  • Forgot to start the crockpot early? Use the Instapot version instead.

Variations:

  • No orzo? Use small pasta or cooked rice.
  • Creamy twist: Add a splash of cream or milk at the end.
  • Low-carb: Skip the orzo and load up on veggies instead.
  • Extra veggies: Add peas, mushrooms, or chopped zucchini.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.