Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is an ideal dish for any occasion. Its fresh and zesty flavors make it a standout choice for winter dinners or cozy family gatherings. This soup is light yet satisfying, featuring a delightful blend of chicken, lemon, and aromatic herbs. In just 35 minutes, you can create a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this soup comes together swiftly.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from chicken and vegetables, it’s both healthy and fulfilling.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup fits various occasions and dietary preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this easy one-pot recipe.
• Fresh Flavors: The bright lemon juice and fresh dill elevate the taste to new heights.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. These will help you create the perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• large pot or Dutch oven
• cutting board
• sharp knife
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Essential for tempering eggs properly to achieve that creamy texture without scrambling them.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• ½ cup diced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
• ½ cup diced celery (about 3-4 celery stalks)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 strips lemon peel
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves (omit if you don’t have any)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or chicken bone broth)

For the Soup Enrichment

• ½ cup dry white rice
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups shredded chicken breast

For the Finish

• 3-4 oz baby spinach (about 3 large handfuls)
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped dill
• salt + pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Bring a large pot or Dutch oven to medium heat. Once hot, add a bit of olive oil. Then, add onion, celery, carrots, and lemon peel. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté everything while stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and veggies are tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.

Step 2: Add Broth and Rice

Next, add oregano, bay leaves, and broth to the pot. Stir well. Increase heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add rice; then reduce heat to medium-low. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Remove Flavorings

Carefully remove bay leaves and lemon peels from the pot using a slotted spoon or tongs. Discard these flavorings as they have served their purpose.

Step 4: Temper the Eggs

Now reduce heat to low. In a medium-sized bowl, add the egg and egg yolk; whisk them together thoroughly. Very slowly pour in a few ladlefuls of broth into the egg bowl while whisking constantly. This process tempers the eggs so they don’t scramble when added back to the soup pot.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slowly pour the tempered eggs back into the soup pot while whisking constantly. Add shredded chicken, spinach, dill, and lemon juice into the pot as well. Stir everything together and continue cooking for several more minutes until the chicken is warmed through and spinach has wilted. Taste your soup before serving; adjust salt, pepper, lemon juice, or dill as needed. Enjoy!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Serving Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that elevate its flavors while adding texture and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Mint Leaves: Add mint leaves for a unique twist that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with warm sourdough for dipping into the soup, enhancing its comforting nature.
• Garlic Bread: The savory notes of garlic bread pair perfectly with the soup’s flavors.

With Grains

• Quinoa: For added protein and texture, serve the soup over a bed of cooked quinoa.
• Orzo Pasta: Stir in or serve alongside orzo pasta for a heartier meal.

With Salads

• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese makes for a perfect side.
• Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s lemony taste.

How to Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

To make your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They can enhance the flavors and textures of your dish, ensuring each bowl is perfect.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Freshness elevates the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go. Adding salt, pepper, and lemon juice gradually helps achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Whisk Eggs Vigorously: When incorporating the egg mixture, whisk vigorously to prevent scrambling. This method creates a creamy texture.
• Add Spinach at the End: To maintain its vibrant color and nutrients, add spinach just before serving so it wilts slightly but remains bright.
• Experiment with Broth Types: Try using bone broth instead of regular chicken broth for richer flavor and added health benefits.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the soup right after cooking to enjoy its warm and comforting qualities.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful soup perfectly.

1. Pita Chips: Lightly salted pita chips add crunch and are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers a great contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides an excellent side that absorbs the soup’s broth well.
4. Feta Cheese Platter: A platter of feta cheese served with olives gives a classic Mediterranean touch to your meal.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites are tasty additions that complement the lemon notes in the soup.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Dip (Tzatziki): This refreshing dip balances out the warmth of the soup while offering creamy coolness.
7. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned grilled shrimp add protein and a smoky flavor that pairs well with the citrus notes in the soup.
8. Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A salad featuring couscous with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs brings brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the egg tempering: Not tempering the eggs can lead to scrambled eggs in your soup. Always whisk in hot broth slowly to prevent this.
• Overcooking the rice: If you cook the rice for too long, it can become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely to ensure perfectly tender rice.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice for balanced flavors.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make all the difference. Ensure your chicken and vegetables are fresh for the best taste and texture.
• Rushing the cooking process: Hurrying through steps can compromise flavor development. Take your time, especially when sautéing veggies for a rich base.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• The soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup freezes well for 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a comforting dish made with chicken, rice, eggs, and lemon juice that brings warmth on cold days.

Can I customize my Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Yes! You can add more vegetables like zucchini or replace chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust lemon juice based on your taste preference.

How do I store leftovers of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer preservation.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is light yet filling, packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables and herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. With its comforting flavors and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Enjoy this delightful recipe today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a bright and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its zesty lemon flavor combined with tender chicken and aromatic herbs, this soup is ideal for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a bowl of warmth that everyone will love. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy comfort food option. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing lunch or a light dinner, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup fits the bill effortlessly.

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Ingredients

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• olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• ½ cup diced carrots
• ½ cup diced celery
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 strips lemon peel
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• 6 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup dry white rice
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups shredded chicken breast
• 3–4 oz baby spinach
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped dill
• salt + pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and lemon peel for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Stir in dried oregano, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil before adding dry white rice; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove bay leaves and lemon peels from the pot.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs together; gradually add hot broth to temper them. Slowly pour this mixture back into the pot while stirring continuously.
5. Add shredded chicken, spinach, dill, and lemon juice to the pot and stir until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg