This delightful soup combines the bright flavors of lemon with tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a creamy broth, reminiscent of the classic chicken piccata. The addition of fried capers adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor, making each spoonful a comforting experience. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup is both satisfying and refreshing, offering a harmonious blend of textures and tastes,

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons butter
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
  

• 1 shallot, finely diced
  
  

• 4 garlic cloves, grated
  
  

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  
  

• 4 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth
  
  

• 1/3 cup white wine
  
  

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  
  

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  
  

• 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
  
  

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  
  

• ¾ cup light cream
  
  

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon salt
  
  

For the Fried Capers:

• 3 oz jar of capers, drained
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Fried Capers: In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add drained capers and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside for garnish.
   
   

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in grated garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   
   

3. Create the Roux: Add flour to the shallot and garlic mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for 30 seconds to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   
   

4. Build the Soup Base: Pour in chicken broth and white wine, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   
   

5. Add Orzo and Chicken: Stir in uncooked orzo pasta and shredded rotisserie chicken. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking.
   
   

6. Finish the Soup: Add lemon juice, lemon zest, light cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the soup is heated through and the flavors meld together.
   
   

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fried capers and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 25g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 30g
  
  

• Fat: 15g
  
  

• Sodium: 800mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g