Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup with Kale

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp dried oregano and/or thyme, divided
• 1 1/4 tsp salt, divided
• 3/4 tsp ground pepper, divided
• 2 cup chopped onions
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 clove garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 2/3 cup orzo pasta, preferably whole-wheat
• 4 cup chopped kale
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon each oregano (and/or thyme), salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a plate.
2. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, onions, carrots and celery to the pan. Cook, scraping up any browned bits, until the vegetables are soft and lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic, bay leaf and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon oregano (and/or thyme). Cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds.
3. Add broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Add orzo. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer, cover and cook for 5 minutes. Add kale and the chicken, along with any accumulated juices. Continue cooking until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through, 5 to 8 minutes more.
4. Remove from heat. Discard bay leaf. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.