Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 2-3 celery stalks, diced; 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 2 bay leaves; 2 chicken breasts (about 12 oz/350g total); 6 cups chicken stock; ¾ cup orzo; 2 egg yolks; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh dill; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 31, 2025

by Sofia

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Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. This comforting soup features tender chicken, hearty orzo, and a creamy egg-lemon sauce that creates a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for cozy family dinners or as a warming treat on chilly evenings, this recipe showcases the essence of Greek cuisine in an easy-to-make format.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken and lemon creates a depth of flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Comforting Texture: The silky egg-lemon sauce adds a creamy finish, making it feel indulgent yet light.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own while keeping the classic profile.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono), having the right tools can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Whisk
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend perfectly.
Whisk: Helps incorporate the egg yolks into the soup smoothly, ensuring a silky texture.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.

Ingredients

A classic Greek soup combining chicken, orzo, and a silky egg-lemon sauce – comfort food at its finest.

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium carrot, diced
2-3 celery stalks, diced
2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 bay leaves
2 chicken breasts (about 12 oz/350g total)
6 cups (1.5 liter) chicken stock
¾ cup (175g) orzo
2 egg yolks
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh dill
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken

Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then add bay leaves, chicken breasts, and chicken stock to the pot.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Remove chicken breasts and bay leaves after cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add orzo to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. While it cooks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Prepare Egg-Lemon Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice. Temper this mixture by gradually adding hot soup broth. Then stir this back into the pot with the soup.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Allow the soup to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in fresh dill, season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve with extra dill if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Bread

Crusty Loaf: Serve with a warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Pita Bread: Fluffy pita adds an authentic touch and pairs perfectly with the soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Dill Sprigs: Top each bowl with fresh dill for added flavor and freshness.
Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and taste-wise.

Accompanied by Salad

Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad complements the flavors of Avgolemono beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette enhances the lemony notes of the soup.

Served as a Main Dish

Hearty Meal: Enjoy Avgolemono as a main course. The chicken and orzo make it filling.
With Grilled Fish: Pair with grilled fish for a balanced meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

How to Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

To create the best Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, consider these tips that will elevate your cooking game.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly.
Control the Temperature: Cook on low heat when adding egg yolks to avoid curdling.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go; this helps balance flavors throughout the cooking process.
Shred Chicken Well: Shredding chicken finely allows it to absorb more flavor from the broth.
Add Lemon Gradually: Add lemon juice slowly to control acidity levels according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Pairing side dishes with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil and oregano.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies lightly seasoned and grilled add color and nutrition to your table.
Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips provide a satisfying texture contrast alongside the soup.
Roasted Potatoes: Herb-seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty complement to the lightness of Avgolemono.
Spanakopita: These flaky spinach and feta pastries bring a deliciously savory element to your meal.
Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives, capers, and herbs can be served on toasted bread for an extra bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono), it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overcooking the Chicken: If you leave the chicken in for too long, it can become dry. Cook it just until it’s done, then remove it to shred.
Not Tempering the Eggs: Skipping the tempering process can result in scrambled eggs in your soup. Always whisk the egg yolks with a bit of hot broth before adding them to the pot.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always season with salt and pepper throughout cooking.
Using Old Orzo: Expired orzo may not cook properly and could alter the texture of your soup. Check expiration dates and use fresh ingredients.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Not adding fresh dill or other herbs diminishes flavor. Use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the soup to cool before sealing.

Freezing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warm.
Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono):

Can I use leftover chicken for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken works great! Just add it during the last steps of cooking.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free version of this dish.

What is Avgolemono sauce?

Avgolemono is a traditional Greek sauce made from eggs and lemon juice that gives this soup its creamy texture.

How long does Greek Lemon Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add vegetables to Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is not just comfort food; it’s also versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust ingredients or add more vegetables based on your preference. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting warmth any night of the week!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

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