Few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Also known as Avgolemono, this Mediterranean favorite brings together a silky, lemon-infused broth, tender chicken, and just the right touch of orzo or rice for a hearty yet refreshing dish.
Craving something that’s both soothing and satisfying? This soup does it all. It’s light yet rich, easy to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners, chilly evenings, or whenever you need a nourishing boost.
Bring the warmth of Greek home cooking to your table with this simple, flavorful recipe—one spoonful at a time!
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What Makes This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup So Special?
If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting soup that’s both light and satisfying, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a must-try. It’s packed with Mediterranean flavors, naturally thickened with eggs and lemon, and delivers the perfect balance of richness and tang.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Incredibly Nourishing: Made with shredded chicken, fresh lemon juice, and a velvety broth, this soup is high in protein and packed with immune-boosting ingredients.
- Cozy Yet Refreshing: Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this one is light, bright, and perfect for any season—whether you need comfort on a chilly night or a zesty pick-me-up.
- Quick & Easy to Make: With simple pantry-friendly ingredients, you can have this dish on the table in under an hour.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors deepen as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
- Authentic Greek Comfort Food: This dish brings a taste of traditional Greek cooking to your kitchen with minimal effort.
- Whether you’re new to Avgolemono soup or it’s already a favorite, this recipe is sure to become a go-to comfort meal in your home
What Ingredients do you need for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup ( Avgolemono Soup )
Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create a bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
For the Soup:
- 4 cups chicken broth – Use homemade or a high-quality store-bought broth for the best flavor.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- ½ cup orzo or white rice – Adds heartiness to the soup.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for the signature creamy texture.
- Juice of 2 lemons – Freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely diced – Adds depth to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Adjust based on your preference.
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish – Brings freshness and color.
Optional Additions:
- Bay leaf – Infuses extra depth into the broth.
- Carrots and celery – For added texture and nutrition.
- Crumbled feta – A delicious topping for extra creaminess.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be ready to make a warm, comforting soup that brings a taste of Greece to your kitchen!
How Do You Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Follow these simple steps to make a perfectly creamy, tangy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup at home.
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Simmer the Broth & Cook the Orzo
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add ½ cup of orzo or rice, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 8–10 minutes, or until tender.
3. Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and the juice of 2 lemons until smooth.
- Slowly ladle ½ cup of hot broth into the mixture while whisking continuously. This step helps temper the eggs so they don’t curdle when added to the soup.
4. Combine & Thicken the Soup
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Slowly pour the tempered egg-lemon mixture back into the pot, stirring gently.
- Let the soup warm through for a few minutes, but avoid boiling—this keeps the texture silky and smooth.
5. Add the Chicken & Season
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve & Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Enjoy warm with crusty bread or a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
What Are the Best Tips & Mistakes to Avoid?
Mastering Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is simple, but a few key details make all the difference. Keep these tips in mind for the best results!
Tips for a Perfect Avgolemono Soup
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Whisk the Egg-Lemon Mixture Well – This ensures a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
- Temper the Eggs Slowly – Gradually adding hot broth while whisking prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Avoid Boiling After Adding Eggs – Keep the heat low to maintain a silky consistency.
- Adjust Thickness to Your Liking – Add more broth for a lighter soup or let it simmer slightly longer for a thicker texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Eggs Directly to Hot Soup – This can cause them to scramble instead of creating a smooth, velvety texture.
- Overcooking the Orzo or Rice – It will absorb too much liquid and turn mushy. Cook until just tender.
- Using Cold Chicken – Add it at room temperature to prevent cooling down the soup too quickly.
- Skipping the Stirring Step – Gentle stirring after adding the egg-lemon mixture keeps the consistency even.
Variations & Serving Ideas
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile! Whether you’re looking to customize it to dietary preferences or serve it with the perfect side, here are some great ideas.
Delicious Variations
- Low-Carb Version – Swap out orzo or rice for cauliflower rice to keep it light and keto-friendly.
- Extra Creamy Texture – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer consistency.
- Vegetarian Option – Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
- Heartier Meal – Add diced carrots and celery while simmering the broth for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up – A dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of paprika can add a subtle heat.
How to Serve
- With Crusty Bread – A warm slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping.
- Alongside a Greek Salad – Pair with a classic Greek salad for a fresh and balanced meal.
- Topped with Feta & Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of crumbled feta and a handful of dill or parsley take it to the next level.
- As a Light Starter – Serve in small bowls before a Mediterranean-style main course like grilled lamb or fish.
With these easy variations and serving ideas, you can customize your soup to suit any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a special gathering!
FAQs about Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
What does Avgolemono mean in Greek?
“Avgolemono” comes from the Greek words “avgo” (egg) and “lemono” (lemon). It refers to the signature egg-lemon mixture that thickens and flavors this comforting soup.
What does Avgolemono taste like?
Avgolemono has a silky, creamy texture with a bright, tangy flavor from the lemon juice. The eggs give it a smooth richness, making it both light and satisfying.
Is Avgolemono soup good for an upset stomach?
Yes! This soup is easy to digest and packed with nourishing ingredients like broth, eggs, and chicken, making it a soothing option when you’re feeling under the weather.
Why add lemon juice to soup?
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the flavors and balancing the richness of the broth and eggs. It also helps tenderize the chicken and gives the soup its signature tang.
How much protein is in Avgolemono?
A serving of Avgolemono soup typically contains 15-20 grams of protein, depending on the amount of chicken used. This makes it a great high-protein meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
What can I use instead of orzo?
You can swap orzo for white rice, quinoa, pearl couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I keep the eggs from scrambling?
The key is tempering the eggs—slowly whisking in hot broth a little at a time before adding it back to the pot. This prevents them from cooking too quickly.
Chef’s Note:
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is truly a comforting dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy and zesty. The key to achieving that velvety texture is tempering the eggs with the hot broth slowly, so don’t rush this step! If you’re craving more hearty, comforting soups, be sure to check out my Lentil Soup recipe – it’s another crowd-pleaser that’s just as nourishing and full of flavor.
Avgolemono : Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup orzo or white rice
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Juice of lemons
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Optional Additions:
- Bay leaf
- Carrots and celery
- Crumbled feta
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the Broth & Cook the Orzo: Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in orzo or rice, and cook for 8–10 minutes or until tender.
- Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice. Slowly ladle hot broth into the mixture while whisking to temper the eggs.
- Combine & Thicken the Soup: Reduce heat to low and slowly add the egg-lemon mixture to the pot, stirring gently. Let the soup warm through for a few minutes, avoiding boiling.
- Add Chicken & Season: Stir in shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t let the soup boil after adding the egg mixture to maintain a silky texture.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.
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