Name: Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons DeLallo Private Reserve Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced; 1/4 cup DeLallo Tomato Paste; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 4 cups chicken broth; Salt to taste; 1 cup DeLallo Orzo Pasta; 2 cups chopped or shredded cooked chicken (pulled rotisserie chicken meat recommended); 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1-2 cups water as needed for desired consistency; Parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil); Red pepper flakes, to taste; Fresh lemon juice; Bread for serving; Pesto for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 15 reviews

I am so excited to share this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe with you because it has become one of my absolute favorite comfort foods. The perfect balance of rich tomato flavors, tender chicken, and delicate orzo pasta creates a bowl that feels like a warm hug on any day. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when you want to impress family and friends with something both cozy and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe

What really stands out to me about this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe is its vibrant flavor profile. The slow caramelization of tomato paste with garlic gives the broth such a deep, savory complexity that makes every spoonful incredibly satisfying. Adding the creamy finish from heavy cream alongside fresh lemon juice balances acidity and richness perfectly — I always find myself going back for seconds because it’s that delicious!

Another reason I adore this recipe is how straightforward it is to prepare. I appreciate that most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find, and the step-by-step process flows smoothly without feeling overwhelming. Whether I’m cooking on a busy weekday or prepping for guests, this soup always feels manageable and rewarding. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile for different occasions, from a casual family meal to a cozy dinner party starter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl filled with vegetable soup is placed on a white marbled surface. The soup has a clear golden broth with small pieces of orange carrot cubes, small rice-like pasta bits, and green herbs sprinkled on top. A ladle filled with the soup is held by a pair of stainless steel tongs resting inside the bowl, lifting a portion showing the mix of broth, pasta, and carrots clearly. The soup has small bubbles and a slightly oily sheen on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple and each plays an essential role in building the soup’s delicious layers. From the aromatic garlic to the tender chicken, every component contributes to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.

DeLallo Private Reserve Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth when sautéing garlic.
Garlic: Thinly sliced or minced to provide a fragrant base without overpowering the other flavors.
DeLallo Tomato Paste: The secret weapon to create a deep, caramelized tomato flavor.
Italian seasoning: Gives that classic herbal warmth that complements the tomato beautifully.
Chicken broth: The hearty liquid foundation that carries all the flavors together.
Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing the soup’s taste.
DeLallo Orzo Pasta: Tiny, tender pasta that adds delightful texture and makes the soup more substantial.
Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor, but any cooked chicken will do.
Heavy cream: Adds a luscious creaminess that makes this soup truly comforting.
Water: Used to adjust the soup’s consistency to your personal preference.
Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, and lemon: These bright, finishing touches elevate the bowl visually and flavor-wise.
Bread and pesto (optional): Perfect for dipping and making the meal even more satisfying.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until it becomes soft and releases its wonderful aroma. Be careful not to let it brown, as that can bring unwanted bitterness.

Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the tomato paste darken and caramelize, which intensifies its flavor and brings out the soup’s rich red color.

Step 3: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to create a smooth liquid base. Season with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then taste and adjust depending on how salty your broth is.

Step 4: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for roughly 10 minutes until the orzo is tender but not mushy. Add a splash or two of water or extra broth if you want a thinner texture. Then stir in the heavy cream to give the soup a silky, creamy finish.

Step 5: Fold in the chopped or shredded cooked chicken. To brighten the flavors, squeeze fresh lemon juice generously into the soup—it truly wakes everything up and balances the richness.

Step 6: Serve the soup hot, garnished with generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Don’t forget warm crusty bread on the side and a small dish of pesto for dipping, if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Servings and Timing

This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe serves about 4 generous bowls, making it ideal for a small family or dinner with friends. Prep time takes roughly 5 minutes, mostly gathering and measuring ingredients, while the cooking time is approximately 25 minutes. That means the total time from start to finish clocks in around 30 minutes. There is no resting time required, so you can enjoy it straight away, piping hot and fresh.

How to Serve This Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe

Three white bowls filled with clear golden broth soup, each containing small pieces of light tan cooked chicken, bright orange carrot cubes, pale green celery, and short, tubular white pasta. The soup is garnished with scattered dark green herbs and a sprinkling of black pepper. One bowl in the center rests on a light wooden board with a silver spoon dipping into the soup, while a torn, brown crusty loaf of bread and fresh parsley sprigs sit nearby on the white marbled surface. A half lemon is placed near the upper left, and two spoons lie above the bowls. The overall scene is bright and fresh with a cozy, homemade feel photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this soup, I love pairing it with crusty artisan bread—it’s perfect for dunking and soaking up every bit of that luscious broth. For a little extra flair, a dollop of pesto on the bread adds an herbal punch that complements the tomato and chicken beautifully. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or drizzle some good olive oil right before eating for a lovely finishing touch.

This soup is comforting when served hot, right from the stove, but I’ve also enjoyed it warm as leftovers the next day. It works wonderfully as a main course for cozy weeknight dinners or as a starter to a more elaborate meal during holidays and special occasions. For a casual lunch, smaller portions accompanied by a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables make a balanced and satisfying plate.

As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Rosé pairs amazingly, brightening the tomato and balancing the creamy chicken. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with a splash of lemon or an iced herbal tea also refresh the palate and complement the vibrant flavors beautifully.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a gluten-free twist, I swap the orzo pasta with gluten-free small pasta shapes or even quinoa, which adds a wonderful nutty bite. If you want a vegan or vegetarian version, omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth works great, and you can add chickpeas or tofu for protein.

If you enjoy foodie adventures, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar to deepen the flavor layers. For a lighter version, I sometimes swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based creamer, giving it a nice subtle twist and keeping the richness without dairy.

For different cooking methods, preparing the base in a slow cooker is a breeze if you want hands-off convenience. Just caramelize the garlic and tomato paste on the stove first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer with the broth and chicken, adding the orzo and cream near the end. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and fits well into busy schedules.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always keep any leftover soup in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days, giving plenty of time to enjoy it again. Using glass containers with a tight seal preserves the flavors well and makes reheating easy and mess-free.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully! I like to portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave some room at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, I prefer stovetop reheating over the microwave for better control. Simply heat gently on medium-low, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to restore the perfect consistency. Avoid boiling it vigorously, which can break down the pasta and dull the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste in this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but tomato paste is key for achieving that intense, caramelized depth of flavor. If you substitute fresh tomatoes, you’ll want to cook them down thoroughly to concentrate their flavor, which will add extra time and may alter the soup’s consistency.

Is rotisserie chicken necessary, or can I use raw chicken?

Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for convenience and flavor, but you can absolutely use raw chicken. Just cook and shred it separately before adding it at the final step. You could poach chicken breasts or thighs in broth while preparing the soup for a fully homemade version.

How do I prevent the orzo from overcooking and becoming mushy?

Keep an eye on the orzo as it simmers and taste test after about 8 minutes. The goal is tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Also, adjusting the liquid by adding water in small increments helps maintain the right texture without making the soup too thick or too thin.

Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it later?

Definitely! In fact, this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it properly and reheat gently on the stove to enjoy it as if freshly made.

What can I serve instead of bread with this soup?

If you want a gluten-free side or something different, try serving the soup with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or simple garlic sautéed greens. Crackers or cheese-stuffed breadsticks also pair wonderfully and add an extra touch of comfort.

Conclusion

I truly hope you savor every spoonful of this Chicken Orzo Tomato Soup Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home in a bowl—simple yet sophisticated, soothing yet lively. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles around the table. Give it a try and let it become a cherished go-to dish in your kitchen too!