Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a comforting and creamy soup that brings together the richness of chicken, the zest of lemon, and the heartiness of rice or orzo. This traditional Greek dish is known for its silky texture, vibrant citrus notes, and nourishing qualities—making it perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a refreshing bowl in the summer, this soup delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
To make a delicious pot of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, you will need:
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably from rotisserie or boiled chicken)
- 1 cup orzo pasta or rice
- 3 large eggs
- 2 lemons (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium carrot (diced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
1.Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
2.Cook the Orzo or Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the orzo or rice and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until tender.
3.Prepare the Avgolemono Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Slowly add the lemon juice while continuing to whisk.
4.Temper the Eggs
To prevent curdling, gradually ladle 1 cup of hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly. This step ensures the eggs do not scramble when added to the soup.
5.Incorporate the Mixture
Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup thicken. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle.
6.Add the Chicken and Seasoning
Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Let the soup heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
7.Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or pita on the side.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a classic dish that embodies the flavors of Greece in every spoonful. Its combination of tangy lemon, hearty chicken, and creamy texture makes it an irresistible choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting winter dish or a light yet satisfying summer meal, Avgolemono is the perfect option. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!