Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a classic Mediterranean dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, lemon, and rice in a light, flavorful broth. This comforting soup is both refreshing and nourishing, with the tangy lemon adding a vibrant touch to the creamy, savory base. Whether you’re seeking a soothing meal during cold weather or looking for a lighter dish with bold flavors, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delicious option that will satisfy both your taste buds and your soul.
The soup starts with tender chicken, which is gently simmered in a flavorful broth made with onions, garlic, and herbs such as bay leaves and thyme. The chicken is then shredded and added back into the soup along with rice or orzo, which soaks up the delicious broth. What makes this soup unique is the addition of the avgolemono sauce, a silky mixture of eggs and lemon juice that is whisked into the soup at the end. The eggs create a creamy texture without the need for cream, while the lemon juice provides a refreshing tang that brightens the entire dish.
The balance of flavors in Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is what makes it so special. The savory broth pairs beautifully with the bright, zesty lemon, and the chicken adds a heartiness that makes the soup filling yet light. The egg-lemon mixture not only thickens the broth but also adds a smooth, velvety richness that takes the soup to another level of comfort.
This soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Some variations add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra color and texture, while others may include spinach for added greens. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or orzo, or use a hand blender to blend part of the soup to create a creamier consistency. For a bit of extra flavor, garnish the soup with fresh parsley or dill.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is perfect as a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or even as a starter for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Nourishing and comforting, this soup brings the bright, fresh flavors of Greece to your table with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 eggs large, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and add the shredded chicken.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together.
- Slowly add a ladle of the hot soup broth into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
- Gradually add the egg mixture back into the pot of soup, stirring constantly.
- Add the baby spinach and let it wilt in the soup for a few minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Nutrition
It was okay, but I think I overcooked the orzo. Next time I’ll be careful.
This soup is amazing! So bright and lemony, perfect for a cold day.
Why you need to temper eggs? Sounds hard. Can’t just add them straight?
I struggled to find orzo in the store, ended up using rice. Turned out pretty good!
I LOVE it! My grandma used to make something similar, this brought back memories.
Greek chicken soup? I never heard of that. Is it really Greek or what?
I dunno, sounds kinda weird to me. Chicken soup is chicken soup, right? I mean, Greek or not, its just soup.
Greek chicken soup is actually a thing! It’s called Avgolemono, it’s a classic! You should try it, super tasty! 😋
I tried making it, but I think I added too much lemon. Tasted kinda sour.
This soup is delicious! So refreshing and light, perfect for spring. Will definitely make again!
Yum! So good! I added some grilled chicken on top, made it even better. 🍗
Grilled chicken sounds amazing with this! I’ll have to try that next time. 🍽️
This soup was soooo good! My family loved it!
Orzo? What’s that? I used rice instead and it was a disaster. Never again.
EASY RECIPE! I’m not a cook but it turned out great! Thanks!
Easy peasy recipe! Made it in under 30 mins, great for busy days. 👍
Very simple and quick, just what I needed on a busy day.
YUM! This is now my go-to for sick days. So easy and tasty!
Kinda sour for my taste. Should’ve put less lemon juice, I guess.
I totally get you! I always cut back on the lemon. Better to taste as you go!
Sour? Really? I thought it was just right! Maybe you should try another recipe? 🤷♂️
Honestly, I didn’t like it. The lemon was too strong for me. Maybe I added too much?
Too strong? I thought it was just right! Maybe you should follow the recipe better next time.
I understand! The lemon can be pretty overpowering. Maybe try less next time or add more chicken to balance it out?
This is not real soup, way too thick. More like stew, lol.
Eggs in soup? Sounds weird… but it was surprisingly nice.
I was skeptical too, but it really did add a unique creaminess to the soup. Love it!
Tried this recipe last night, and my kids wouldn’t eat it. Even the dog wouldn’t touch it! 🤨
Does this really taste like Greek food? I thought Greek chicken had more spices.
I made it with leftover rotisserie chicken and it turned out great! My family loved it.
That’s awesome! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. I’m definitely trying this for my family too!
I added some garlic and it made it even better! Give it a try! 👍