The first week of January always feels like the perfect time to enjoy a big bowl of hearty but healthy soup! If you are like I am, you enjoy a break from the larger meals of the holidays. I think you guys will enjoy this one as you gather around the table for a warm, cozy meal. This is a big hit with my teenagers as well as the adults in my family! I typically add a side salad and either bread or an open-faced sandwich to serve with the soup~ although I personally enjoy the soup all on its own!
Orzo Soup with White Beans, Chicken Meatballs, and Spinach
1 lb ground chicken
1/3 cup Panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1/4 tep garlic powder
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
2 TBSP olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, chopped
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil
4 cups chicken broth or chicken stock
2 bay leaves
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2 cups baby spinach
15 oz can of cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
1 lemon, juiced
2 TBSP chopped fresh parsley
Using the first 9 ingredients, combine to make the meatballs. You will use ground chicken, Panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, red pepper, salt and pepper. Combine the ingredients well using a spoon or with your hands. Shape the mixture into 25-30 meatballs.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or cast iron skillet. Add meatballs in batches and cook until all sides are browned (about 2-3 minutes). Place cooked meatballs on a paper towel lined platter and set aside.
Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to pot/pan and add garlic, onions, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in thyme and basil for about 1 minute.
Whisk in chicken stock and 1 cup of water. Add Bay leaves and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo pasta and reduce heat. Simmer until pasta is tender (about 10-12 mins.).
Add meatballs after pasta has been cooking for about 5-6 mins. and let simmer in soup.
Stir in spinach and white beans and let cook for about 2 mins. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper.
Serve and enjoy!
I am always on the search for new recipes to try for my family and share with you. This is one of our family's favorites from Damn Delicious. Bibliographical Reference- Damndelicious.com
This soup has great flavor and is hearty enough to serve on its own. Try these sides to complete your meal~ a fresh cucumber sandwich or these biscuits. You may also like this version of chicken orzo soup with lemon. Stay warm and enjoy!
Cheers,
Lydia xo
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This soup has great flavor and is hearty enough to serve on its own. Try these sides to complete your meal~ a 