Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small sweet onion, diced small; 2 stalks celery, diced small; 2 medium carrots, diced small; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (not table salt); 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup Arborio rice; 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock; 1 large bay leaf; 2 (6 ounces each) chicken breasts, seasoned, cooked, and shredded; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 large eggs; 2 & 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

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There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup, don’t you think? Especially when it’s packed with flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup—also known as Avgolemono—is one of those dishes that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen, with the comforting aroma of chicken simmering in broth and the tangy brightness of lemon cutting through it all. Trust me, this soup is a game-changer, and you’re going to love it.

Why You’ll Love Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This isn’t just a soup; it’s a cozy moment in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for something soothing after a long day or need a quick meal that’s full of flavor, this soup has you covered. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile

Perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter at a dinner party, this soup adapts to whatever your day throws at you. It’s a comforting choice for casual dinners but can also impress guests with its fresh, vibrant flavor.

Budget-Friendly

Simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. This recipe proves that you don’t need anything fancy to make something delicious!

Quick and Easy

Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. The steps are simple, and the results are so rewarding. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but craving something homemade.

Customizable

Feel free to play with the recipe! Want a little more zing? Add a bit more lemon. Or spice it up with some extra black pepper or herbs. This soup is a great base to adjust based on what you love.

Crowd-Pleasing

This soup is a winner with just about anyone. It’s light yet filling, tangy yet comforting—basically, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need to bring this vibrant, cozy soup to life:

Chicken Breasts

The base of our soup, chicken breasts cook up tender and juicy, adding that satisfying heartiness.

Chicken Broth

The broth brings a rich depth of flavor, providing a savory backdrop that lets the lemon shine.

Lemons

The zest and juice of fresh lemons add that signature brightness, giving the soup its refreshing and tangy kick.

Eggs

Eggs are the secret to the smooth, creamy texture of the soup. They blend beautifully with the broth, making every spoonful feel luxurious.

Rice

Tiny morsels of rice soak up the flavors and add a comforting, filling element to the soup.

Fresh Dill

A sprinkle of fresh dill finishes the soup, adding a burst of flavor that complements the lemony tang.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive into making this warm, comforting dish? Here’s how to bring this soup to life:

Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken breasts in a pot with water and a pinch of salt. Let them simmer until fully cooked and tender, then remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot with the shredded chicken. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and while that’s happening, cook your rice separately until tender.

Whisk the Egg-Lemon Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and fresh lemon juice until smooth. This will create the creamy, tangy base for the soup.

Temper the Egg Mixture

To prevent curdling, slowly add a ladle of hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly. Gradually incorporate the warmed mixture back into the soup.

Finish and Simmer

Return the egg-lemon mixture to the pot and stir gently. Let the soup simmer for another few minutes to combine all the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a bit more lemon if you like it extra zesty.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Serve immediately and enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, comforting soup.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 1 bowl
Calories per serving: 330 kcal

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This soup is a meal on its own, but you can certainly enhance it with some sides:

Fresh Salads

Pair it with a light, crisp salad to balance the creamy texture of the soup. A simple Greek salad would be a perfect match!

Crusty Bread

Warm, crusty bread on the side is always a win. You’ll want something to dip in all that lemony goodness!

Roasted Vegetables

Pair with a side of roasted veggies for some added color and crunch. Try roasted carrots or asparagus for a healthy addition.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make your soup even better:

Make Ahead

This soup stores well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day!

Freeze It

Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for a quick meal later. Just reheat on the stove when you’re ready for a quick meal.

Spice It Up

Want to add a little heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper can take the flavor to the next level.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A1: Absolutely! Just shred the meat and add it to the broth. It’s a time-saver and still delicious.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
A2: Yes! Freeze it in airtight containers and reheat when you’re ready for a quick meal.

Q3: What can I use instead of rice?
A3: You can swap in orzo or even quinoa for a fun twist!

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
A5: Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the chicken.

Q6: How do I make it creamier?
A6: If you want a richer soup, add a splash of heavy cream after it’s done cooking.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Absolutely! Just make sure you have a larger pot and adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A8: Gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth.

Q9: What other herbs can I use?
A9: You could try fresh thyme or oregano if you prefer those flavors over dill.

Q10: Is this soup gluten-free?
A10: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rice!

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful!