Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Mainly, when I think of comfort food, my mind often drifts to warm, comforting bowls of soup. One of my all-time favorites is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of tangy lemon, tender chicken, and creamy egg mixture creates a soothing bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any day, whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something hearty.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

There are several reasons why this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. First, its flavors are vibrant yet comforting, with the bright notes of lemon perfectly balancing the savory richness of the chicken broth. Second, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Lastly, it’s versatile you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Mainly, this soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, offering warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.

Recipe Ingredients

For this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for serving if desired)
• 1 cup chopped green onions (preferably white and light green portions)
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth (and additional broth to thin if needed)
• 3/4 cup jasmine rice or white rice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves (fresh or dried)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon zest
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley and/or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful soup that’s both filling and refreshing.

How To Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Let’s walk through how to make this delightful soup step by step:

1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once heated, add the chopped green onions and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the rice, oregano, bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom, until the rice is just tender this should take around 15 minutes for jasmine rice or 20 minutes for white rice.
3. While the soup simmers, prepare the egg-lemon mixture. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and lemon juice until frothy, which should take about a minute.
4. When the rice is almost done, slowly pour 1 cup of hot broth from the soup into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. This tempering process prevents the eggs from scrambling.
5. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and lemon zest into the soup. Remove the pot from the heat and gradually pour in the egg mixture while stirring constantly. Return the pot to low heat and cook for another minute or two, stirring continuously, until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Finally, serve the soup garnished with fresh parsley and/or dill. If the soup seems too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Expert Tips and Tricks

To ensure your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest adds an extra layer of brightness to the soup.
• Temper the eggs carefully before adding them to the soup to avoid curdling.
• For a creamier texture, you can strain the soup after cooking to remove any bits of egg that may have cooked unevenly.
• Don’t skip the parsley or dill; they provide a fresh finish that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Recipe Variations & Possible Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or lentils for added protein.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free rice or quinoa instead of regular rice.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for unique twists.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup shines on its own, but there are many ways to enhance the experience:

• Serve it alongside crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair it with a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner.
• Consider offering a dollop of yogurt or sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures your soup stays fresh and delicious:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Recipe FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, though fresh or leftover cooked chicken works best for texture and flavor.
• Should I peel the lemon before zesting? No, just give it a good wash and zest directly.
• Is it okay to freeze this soup? While freezing isn’t ideal due to the egg content, you can try freezing smaller portions without the egg mixture and add it later upon reheating.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even experienced cooks encounter issues sometimes. Here’s how to fix common problems:

• Too Thick: Thin the soup with additional chicken broth.
• Eggs Curdled: Strain the soup and start fresh with the egg mixture next time.
• Not Tangy Enough: Add more lemon juice gradually until satisfied.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a wonderful dish that brings together simplicity and elegance in one comforting bowl. Mainly, it’s a recipe that anyone can enjoy, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat. Its versatility allows you to adapt it to your liking, making it a true kitchen essential.

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