Lightly season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Heat a large pot under medium high heat and add oil.
Sear the chicken thighs for about 4-6 minutes until a golden crust appears.
Flip and sear the other side until golden then remove and place the chicken thighs on a plate.
Add carrots, celery, and onions and saute to the same pot and saute until softened (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic and seasonings (salt, pepper, oregano, thyme) and potatoes and saute for just a minute until fragrant.
Add the thighs back into the pot along with the water then bring a boil and allow to simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove the chicken thighs and add in the orzo, chicken bouillon base, and zest of 1 lemon.
While the orzo is cooking, shred the chicken then add to the pot.
Add 1 tbsp lemon juice (about ½ lemon).
Once the orzo has fully cooked (follow package instructions), ladle the soup into individual bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan shavings* (optional)
