Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sat at a cozy café in Athens, the warm aroma of chicken and lemon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a world of comfort. That’s the essence of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines creamy richness with a bright citrus zing—perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive gathering. With this foolproof, dairy-free recipe, you’ll not only wow your taste buds but also enjoy a quick, heartwarming meal delivered in just 45 minutes. The seamless tempering technique is beginner-friendly, allowing anyone to achieve that silky perfection every single time. Are you ready to experience a comforting bowl of this Greek treasure? Let’s dive in! What makes Greek Lemon Chicken Soup special? Comforting, creamy goodness: This soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, combining the luxurious texture of eggs with zesty lemon for a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. Speedy preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this beginner-friendly dish, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile variations: Easily swap in orzo or leftover turkey for flexibility with what you have on hand. Pair it with crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Plus, if you’re a fan of hearty soups, don’t miss out on our Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. This recipe is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Ingredients Get ready to create a creamy, dairy-free delight! For the Soup Base Eggs – provide creaminess for a velvety texture; always use fresh eggs for the best results. Lemon Juice – adds a bright, zesty acidity that elevates the flavor; choose fresh lemon juice over bottled for maximum impact. Chicken Broth – forms the essential flavor base of the soup; opt for high-quality, low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. For the Substance Cooked Chicken – adds protein and heartiness; shredded rotisserie chicken makes for a quick and convenient option. Rice (or Orzo) – serves as a filling agent; consider orzo for a traditional texture and heartiness. For Flavor Olive Oil – enhances richness and flavor; a quality Greek olive oil truly makes a difference. Fresh Herbs (optional) – garnish with parsley or dill for an added burst of freshness, making your soup visually appealing. Now you’re all set to create unforgettable Greek Lemon Chicken Soup that will warm your soul and impress your guests! Enjoy this creamy, dairy-free goodness that’s loved by all. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Step 1: Heat the Broth In a large pot, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and place it over medium heat. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until you see small bubbles forming at the surface. This should take about 10-15 minutes. The warmth and aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Lemon While the broth heats, crack 3 large eggs into a medium bowl. Squeeze in the juice of 2 fresh lemons, ensuring no seeds get in there. Whisk together vigorously until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This combination adds a creamy and tangy essence to your soup. Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture To prevent curdling, slowly ladle about 1 cup of the simmering chicken broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking continuously. Ensure you mix thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes. This essential tempering step warms the eggs gradually, allowing them to blend smoothly into the soup without scrambling. Step 4: Combine the Mixtures Once the egg-lemon mixture is warmed, carefully pour it back into the pot with the hot chicken broth, stirring gently with a wooden spoon. Allow the soup to heat through for an additional 5 minutes, keeping it on medium-low heat without boiling. You’ll notice the soup thickening amid its bright, creamy swirl. Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice Now it’s time to add substance! Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of rice (or orzo) into the pot. Increase the heat to medium and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice or orzo is tender and fully cooked. This will create a hearty, satisfying texture for your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve Once everything is hot and ready, add salt and pepper to taste, depending on your preference. Drizzle in a tablespoon of high-quality olive oil for richness. Stir well to combine all the flavors, and then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a touch of color and freshness before serving this comforting bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. What to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Elevate your dining experience by pairing this comforting bowl with delightful side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle to scoop up that creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Greek Salad: A refreshing contrast with crisp cucumbers and tangy feta, enhancing the soup’s lemony zest with a burst of freshness. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Their savory flavors and caramelized edges pair beautifully, adding depth to the overall meal experience. Herb Rice: Light and fragrant, this plateful of rice infused with herbs balances the rich creaminess of the soup seamlessly. Pita Chips with Hummus: The crunchiness of pita chips along with creamy hummus gives a delightful texture contrast to the soup. White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness, making every spoonful of your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup even more enjoyable. Pairing these delightful accompaniments with your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup will transform your meal into a flavorful feast that everyone will love! How to Store and Freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Fridge: Keep any leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this soup as the egg-lemon mixture may separate and become grainy upon thawing. For optimal texture, enjoy fresh. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the chicken broth and cook the rice or orzo in advance. Store separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to enjoy. Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often, to maintain its creamy texture without curdling the eggs. Expert Tips for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup • Perfect Tempering: Always whisk continuously when adding hot broth to the egg-lemon mixture to prevent curdling. • Quality Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor in your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. • Avoid Curdling: If the soup gets too hot after adding the egg mixture, it may curdle; maintain a gentle simmer instead of boiling. • Storing Leftovers: This soup is best enjoyed fresh; if you must store it, keep the egg-lemon mixture separate until ready to serve. • Custom Add-ins: Feel free to include seasonal vegetables or leftover turkey to personalize your hearty Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Make Ahead Options If you’re looking to save time on busy weeknights, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and rice (or orzo) up to 3 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and rice in a pot, then follow the finishing steps: prepare the egg-lemon mixture, temper it with warm broth, and stir it back into the pot. This method ensures your soup remains just as delicious and creamy when it’s time to serve, making it a convenient, comforting option for your family! Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Variations Feel free to make this soup your own with these delightful twists that elevate every bowl of creamy goodness! Dairy-Free: Substitute eggs with silken tofu blended until creamy for a vegan option that still tastes rich and satisfying. People with dietary restrictions will love this alternative without compromising flavor. Whole Grain: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of regular rice or orzo to boost fiber and nutrients, adding a wholesome touch to your meal. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some extra goodness while still enjoying the traditional taste. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper for a gentle heat that complements the zesty lemon flavor beautifully. A little kick can turn this comfort soup into a flavorful adventure! Vegetable Medley: Toss in some diced carrots, celery, or spinach for extra color, nutrients, and a heartier texture. Not only does this add vibrancy, but it also transforms your soup into a complete meal filled with goodness! Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh dill or thyme for a fragrant upgrade, enhancing the traditional Greek flavor profile. Fresh herbs bring life to the soup, making it feel like a home-cooked classic straight from the Mediterranean. Lemon Lovers’ Twist: Increase the lemon juice to brighten the flavor even more for a tangy delight that twirls on your taste buds. A zesty kick of citrus can lift your soup and refresh your palate. Creamy Touch: If you want an extra creamy soup, blend in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving for a luxurious finish. This adds a wonderful richness without any dairy, making it even more indulgent. Leftover Magic: Use leftover cooked turkey or diced rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein boost that makes meal prep a breeze. It’s a wonderful way to turn holiday leftovers into a comforting staple! Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect version of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. And for more heartwarming recipes, check out our tasty Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with Avocado Jalapeño Salsa or our delightful Zucchini Bread with Lemon Glaze for even more culinary inspiration! Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs How do I select the best lemons for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup? Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for lemons that are bright yellow and feel heavy for their size. Try to avoid any with blemishes or dark spots; these can indicate overripeness. Fresh lemons will give your soup a vibrant acidity that bottled juice just can’t replicate, making all the difference in your Avgolemono! Can I store leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Soup? Yes, you can store any leftover soup! Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat to keep that creamy texture intact. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to heat unevenly and could curdle the eggs. Can I freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup? It’s best not to freeze this soup since the egg-lemon mixture may separate and become grainy once thawed. If you want to prepare in advance, consider freezing just the chicken broth and the rice or orzo separately! Then, when you’re ready, simply combine with fresh eggs and lemon for a pot of deliciousness. What should I do if my soup curdles? Oh no, if your soup curdles while cooking, unfortunately, it cannot be salvaged. The best way to avoid this is to ensure you temper your egg-lemon mixture slowly and whisk continuously when combining it with the hot broth. If you notice curdling, it’s best to start over for that silky texture you want! Are there any dietary considerations for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup? Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free as it uses eggs instead of cream, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy. However, always check for any egg allergies if you’re serving this dish to others. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with various protein options, like leftover turkey, for a heartier meal for everyone to enjoy. Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup You'll Love to Make This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, blends creamy richness with zesty lemon for a comforting dish in just 45 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: GreekCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Soup Base6 cups Chicken Broth high-quality, low-sodium3 large Eggs fresh eggs for the best results2 tbsp Lemon Juice fresh lemon juice preferredSubstance2 cups Cooked Chicken shredded rotisserie chicken recommended1 cup Rice or Orzo orzo for traditional textureFlavor1 tbsp Olive Oil quality Greek olive oil recommendedFresh Herbs optional, garnish with parsley or dill Equipment large potMedium BowlWhisk Method InstructionsIn a large pot, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and place it over medium heat. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form. This should take about 10-15 minutes.While the broth heats, crack 3 large eggs into a medium bowl. Squeeze in the juice of 2 fresh lemons, ensuring no seeds get in. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy, about 2-3 minutes.Slowly ladle about 1 cup of the simmering chicken broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes.Once the egg-lemon mixture is warmed, carefully pour it back into the pot with the hot chicken broth, stirring gently. Allow the soup to heat through for an additional 5 minutes.Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of rice or orzo into the pot. Increase the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.Once everything is ready, add salt and pepper to taste, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil, and stir well. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesAlways whisk continuously when adding hot broth to the egg-lemon mixture to prevent curdling. Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. If storing leftovers, keep the egg-lemon mixture separate until ready to serve. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
