Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Soup

🍅 Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Soup

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 small zucchini or bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• ¾ cup orzo pasta (whole grain, if available)
• 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken breast (or chickpeas for vegetarian)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Optional: fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Optional: grated Parmesan or feta cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Sauté vegetables:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and zucchini (or bell pepper). Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add tomatoes and seasonings:
   Stir in cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until tomatoes start to soften.
3. Simmer the soup:
   Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo pasta and cook about 8–10 minutes, until tender.
4. Add protein and greens:
   Stir in shredded chicken (or chickpeas) and spinach. Simmer another 2–3 minutes until heated through and spinach is wilted.
5. Finish with flavor:
   Stir in lemon juice for brightness. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan or feta, plus a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

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🌿 Mediterranean Diet Benefits

• Uses heart-healthy olive oil
• Includes lean protein (chicken or legumes)
• Packed with veggies and greens
• Features whole grains and fresh herbs
• Naturally anti-inflammatory and balanced

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