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

Lydia Menzies

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Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

• 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

Instructions

 

• 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!

Notes

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