, a creamy yet dairy-free Mediterranean soup made with chicken, lemon, eggs, and rice or orzo. Discover its history, step-by-step cooking method, and expert tips to achieve a silky texture and tangy flavour. Perfect as a comforting meal on cold days or a refreshing dish year-round, this easy recipe brings Greek home cooking to your table in just 40 minutes.){kind=link}
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a classic Greek comfort dish known for its creamy texture and bright, tangy flavour. Made by combining chicken broth, tender shredded chicken, rice or orzo, and a silky egg-lemon mixture, it offers a perfect balance of richness and freshness.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:
This soup is as versatile as it is delicious, fitting beautifully into both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. Fresh lemon juice brings a refreshing lift, while the gentle creaminess of the egg mixture makes it satisfying without being heavy. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it’s a recipe that works well for busy weeknights yet feels special enough for entertaining. Serve it with crusty bread or a light Greek salad to complete the meal.
History:
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, known as Avgolemono in Greece, is a cherished Mediterranean comfort food with roots tracing back centuries. The name comes from two Greek words: avgo (egg) and lemono (lemon). This traditional soup combines chicken broth with a silky egg-lemon mixture, creating a creamy, tangy dish without using cream. Believed to have originated in Mediterranean and Sephardic Jewish cuisine, it became a Greek staple, often served during family gatherings, festive occasions, or as a nourishing remedy for colds.
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Avgolemono
Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup uncooked rice or orzo
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice or OrzoIn a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice or orzo and cook until tender.
- Prepare the Egg-Lemon MixtureIn a bowl, whisk the eggs and lemon juice until smooth and frothy.
- Temper the EggsSlowly add a ladle of hot broth to the egg-lemon mixture while whisking to prevent curdling. Repeat with another ladle.
- Combine and HeatPour the tempered egg-lemon mixture back into the pot. Add the shredded chicken. Stir gently and heat on low without boiling.
- Season and ServeAdd salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Always temper the eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Orzo can be replaced with rice for a heartier version.
- Do not boil the soup after adding the eggs to maintain creaminess.
Tips for Making the Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono):
- Temper the Eggs Slowly – Always whisk in hot broth gradually to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemons give the best bright, tangy flavor.
- Avoid Boiling After Adding Eggs – Keep the heat low to maintain a silky, creamy texture.
- Cook the Rice or Orzo Separately for Leftovers – This prevents it from soaking up too much broth.
- Season at the End – Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice after tasting for perfect balance.
- Use Good Quality Broth – A rich homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth enhances flavour.
- Add Fresh Herbs – Parsley or dill adds a burst of freshness before serving.
FAQ’s for Avgolemono:
Q: Can I make Avgolemono ahead of time?
A: Yes, but reheat gently over low heat without boiling.
Q: Can I freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the egg mixture can separate after freezing.
Q: What’s the best chicken to use?
A: Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience, but fresh poached chicken has the best flavour.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes, substitute vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
Q: How do I thicken the soup more?
A: Add a bit more rice or orzo, or whisk in an extra egg.
Conclusion:
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of comfort and tradition. Its combination of bright citrus and silky texture creates a uniquely satisfying experience that’s both light and hearty. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this timeless Greek favourite is sure to warm hearts and bring everyone back for seconds.