Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Cozy and Bright

© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©

Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Cozy and Bright 🍋🍲✨

1. Introduction

If you’re seeking a comforting, yet bright and tangy dish, look no further than this authentic Greek lemon chicken soup, also known as Greek Lemon Avgolemono. This traditional Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delicious combination of tender chicken, wholesome rice, and the signature tang of fresh lemon juice blended with eggs. Its cozy texture combined with vibrant flavors makes it an all-time favorite, perfect for chilly evenings or when you want a soul-warming dish that is also refreshing. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or a seasoned aficionado, this classic Greek Lemon Avgolemono recipe is a must-try. Dive in and discover how to craft this delightfully bright, hearty soup from scratch! 

2. Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• 2 large chicken breasts or 1 whole chicken, bone-in for richer flavor
• 1 cup long-grain rice (or orzo for an alternative)
• 8 cups chicken broth or stock
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cooking the chicken either by boiling or roasting. If boiling, place the chicken breasts or whole chicken in a large pot with water, garlic, and onion, and simmer until cooked through (about 30-40 minutes). Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Save the broth if boiling the chicken for a flavorful base.

Cook the Rice

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Pour in your chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Add the rice and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Broth

Add the shredded chicken into the rice and broth mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let all flavors meld together for a few minutes, ensuring the soup heats evenly.

Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture

While the soup simmers, beat the eggs in a bowl until frothy. Gradually whisk in the fresh lemon juice to avoid curdling. Once the mixture is well combined, slowly ladle some hot soup broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking constantly, tempering the eggs to prevent curdling.

Finish the Soup

Slowly pour the egg and lemon mixture back into the soup pot, stirring gently. Continue to cook over low heat for a few minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Do not boil after adding the eggs, to keep the texture smooth and silky.

Garnish and Serve

Divide the hot Greek Lemon Chicken Soup into bowls, garnished with chopped fresh dill or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita for an authentic Greek experience.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Greek Lemon Avgolemono

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. The soup may thicken upon cooling; add a splash of warm broth or water to restore its silky consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions for a Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Experience

For an added layer of flavor, serve your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup alongside warm flatbreads such as pita or a side of roasted vegetables. Pair it with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing touch. Personalize the dish with additional herbs or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for extra richness.

6. FAQs About Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Can I use chicken broth instead of homemade?

Yes, using store-bought chicken broth is perfectly fine for convenience. Opt for low-sodium versions to better control the seasoning.

Can I make this Greek lemon chicken soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like potatoes or hearty beans, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The lemon and egg components will still give the soup a bright, creamy flavor.

How long does it take to prepare?

The overall preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes. Most of this time is spent on simmering the chicken and rice, making it a quick yet satisfying dish.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, especially if you use rice as the grain. Adjust the recipe accordingly if using other grains like orzo which contain gluten.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Great for quick, healthy meal prep, including roasting or boiling chicken efficiently.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — A versatile set that helps in preparing everything from sautéing onions to simmering soups seamlessly.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Ideal for cooking chicken quickly and evenly for mealtimes.
• Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker — Brew a fresh cup of coffee to enjoy alongside your soup.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — Useful for mixing eggs or preparing homemade broth ingredients.

8. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup on a chilly day or whenever you need a burst of sunshine in your meal. Its delicious combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, rice, and the zest of fresh lemon makes it a truly traditional Greek Lemon Avgolemono that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few steps, you can recreate this classic Greek soup at home and impress your family or guests. Embrace this cozy and bright recipe as part of your culinary repertoire, and enjoy the comforting yet invigorating flavors of Greece anytime!

9. Final Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to add the egg-lemon mixture gradually to prevent curdling, stirring constantly.
• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice just isn’t the same!
• Feel free to customize with herbs like dill or parsley for an extra fresh touch.

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