This Chicken Meatball Noodle Soup is the ultimate comforting meal for chilly days. Tender, juicy chicken meatballs are combined with a light, flavorful broth, tender orzo, and a bright burst of lemon. It’s a warm, hearty dish full of fresh flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the perfect balance of savory and fresh. The chicken meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor, while the broth is light yet full of comforting herbs. The addition of orzo makes it hearty, and the lemon juice adds a refreshing burst that ties everything together. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Meatball Noodle Soup is sure to be a family favorite.

Chicken Meatball Noodle Soup

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken (or ground turkey)
½ cup breadcrumbs (such as Panko)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup chopped parsley
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup uncooked orzo (or any small pasta)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Form the mixture into 15 meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

3. Make the Soup:

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Add Broth and Simmer:

Add the chicken broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, and orzo to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Gently drop the baked meatballs into the soup and continue simmering for about 10 minutes, until the orzo is tender.

5. Finish the Soup:

Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Serve the soup warm, garnished with more fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and substitute gluten-free pasta for the orzo.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for some heat.
Use Different Pasta: If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low heat. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a bit of water or chicken broth to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just be sure to store the meatballs separately in the fridge to avoid them becoming soggy. When reheating, gently warm the meatballs in the soup.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the orzo and meatballs for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat, then add fresh orzo and meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe and will give you a similar flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can be used in place of dried. Use about 3 teaspoons of fresh oregano and thyme instead of the dried variety.

How do I make the soup spicier?

To add some spice, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the soup.

Conclusion

This Chicken Meatball Noodle Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The tender chicken meatballs, flavorful broth, and a burst of lemon create a warming and hearty meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. It’s a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with some crusty bread for a complete dinner!