Name: Comforting Greek Lemon Chicken Soup for a Cozy Night In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (Preferably extra virgin); 1 medium onion (Chopped); 1 medium carrot (Diced); 1 stalk celery (Diced); 3 cloves garlic (Minced); 2 leaves bay leaves (Remove before serving); 1 pound chicken breasts (Diced or shredded rotisserie); 6 cups chicken stock (Homemade or store-bought); 1 cup orzo (Can substitute with rice); 3 large egg yolks (Room temperature to minimize curdling); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Freshly squeezed is best); 0.25 cup fresh dill (Chopped)

As I stood by the stove, the comforting aroma of sautéed onions and garlic enveloped me, instantly transporting me to a sun-soaked Mediterranean kitchen. Avgolemono, our beloved Greek lemon chicken soup, is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. With its silky texture enlivened by fresh lemon juice and egg yolks, this recipe comes together in less than 50 minutes, proving that homemade comfort food doesn’t have to be time-consuming. And whether you have leftover chicken to repurpose or prefer to dive into world of orzo pasta, this dish is both versatile and irresistibly soothing. Curious how this bright bowl of joy can elevate your next dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup comforting?

Simplicity: This Avgolemono recipe comes together effortlessly in under 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Zesty Flavor: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, while the egg yolks create a velvety, comforting texture that’s hard to resist.

Versatile: Use leftover chicken or try different pastas like orzo or rice to suit your preferences. You can even turn this into a vegetarian delight by swapping chicken for chickpeas!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinner or a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Serve it alongside warm crusty bread or pita for the ultimate experience.

Heartwarming Experience: Each bowl is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, reminding you of the joys of homemade meals. You’ll love it just like my Mediterranean Chicken Stir recipe!

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components that create this comforting dish!

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables and adding healthy fat; opt for high-quality extra virgin for superior flavor.
Onion – Provides a savory base; shallots can be used for a subtly sweeter taste.
Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color; feel free to swap with parsnip for a unique twist.
Celery – Contributes aromatic flavor and texture, but can be omitted or replaced with diced zucchini if desired.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor with its aromatic qualities; fresh is best, though garlic powder can be a last resort.
Bay Leaves – Infuse the broth with lovely earthy notes; remember to remove before serving.
Chicken Breasts – The soup’s star protein; using leftover rotisserie chicken makes preparation a breeze.
Chicken Stock – Acts as the soup’s flavorful base; homemade or high-quality store-bought is recommended for the best results.
Orzo – A small pasta that adds heartiness to the dish; can be substituted with rice, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Egg Yolk – Creates that luscious creaminess and rich texture; it’s important to use room temperature yolks to minimize curdling risk.
Lemon Juice – The key to achieving that signature tang; always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
Fresh Dill – Adds a fragrant, herbal note that beautifully complements the lemon; parsley can be a great alternative.

Feel free to explore the delightful charm of Greek lemon chicken soup by gathering these ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add one chopped onion, one diced carrot, and one diced celery stalk. Sauté the mixture for about 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This step creates a savory base for your Greek lemon chicken soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then, add 2 bay leaves, 1 pound of diced chicken breasts (or shredded rotisserie chicken) and 6 cups of chicken stock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes, giving the chicken time to cook through thoroughly. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the broth is aromatic, creating a comforting base for your Avgolemono.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo
After simmering, remove the cooked chicken from the pot along with the bay leaves. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta into the broth, cooking uncovered for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want the pasta to be al dente and not overly soft, ensuring a delightful texture in your Greek lemon chicken soup.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
While the orzo cooks, shred the chicken using two forks on a cutting board. Once shredded, return the chicken back into the pot along with the orzo. This step brings back the savory essence of the chicken, perfectly blending with the heartiness of the pasta.

Step 6: Temper the Egg and Lemon
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks with the juice of 2 fresh lemons. To temper the mixture, slowly add about 1 cup of hot broth from the pot while whisking continuously. This technique will prevent the eggs from curdling when you incorporate them back into the soup.

Step 7: Incorporate Egg Mixture
With the rice or orzo now cooked, slowly stir the tempered egg and lemon mixture back into the pot over low heat. Cook gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and develop that luxurious creamy texture. Keep stirring to ensure a smooth finish to your Greek lemon chicken soup.

Step 8: Add Fresh Dill and Serve
Finally, stir in a small handful of freshly chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the heat, and your Greek lemon chicken soup is ready to serve! For an extra touch, garnish with more fresh dill before ladling into bowls, creating a warm and inviting meal.

Expert Tips for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Tempering Techniques: Ensure you temper the egg yolks with hot broth slowly to prevent curdling. This keeps your Greek lemon chicken soup smooth and creamy.
Warm Chicken Shredding: Shred the chicken while it’s warm for better texture and easier handling. This also allows the chicken to absorb more flavors.
Fresh Lemon Only: Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice over bottled varieties. The vibrant flavor of fresh lemon is essential for your soup’s signature taste.
Pasta Cooking Tip: If using orzo, cook it until al dente to maintain its texture. If you’re using rice instead, adjust the cooking time appropriately.
Storing Wisely: To avoid mushy pasta, store the soup and pasta separately if you’re making it ahead of time. Add the orzo freshly cooked when you’re ready to enjoy your soup!

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting recipe—there are so many delicious paths to explore!

Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for thighs to add a deeper flavor and juiciness to the soup.
Alternative Pasta: Use ditalini or star-shaped pasta for a fun twist that makes every bowl a little exciting.
Vegetarian Delight: For a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu, and use vegetable stock instead.
Herb Infusion: Add a touch of fresh thyme or oregano for a deeper aroma, enhancing the Mediterranean essence of your Avgolemono.
Creamy Add-In: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for an extra velvety texture—think of it as a luxurious upgrade!
Lemon Zest: For an added citrus punch, grate some lemon zest into the pot before serving; it brightens the entire dish beautifully.
Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a delightful kick, balancing perfectly with the lemony goodness.
Serve with Bread: Pair this soup with freshly baked pita or my homemade Frozen Greek Yogurt Peanut Butter Bites for the ultimate comfort meal experience that will warm your heart.

Experiment with these variations to find your favorite way to enjoy this classic Greek lemon chicken soup!

What to Serve with Avgolemono — Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

There’s something truly enchanting about turning a bowl of comforting soup into a full feast that warms the heart and soul.

Warm Crusty Bread: This is a must-have for scooping up soup—each bite of golden bread enhances the soup’s rich flavors.
Greek Salad: A fresh and tart compliment, the crisp vegetables and feta add a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy soup beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they offer a roasted sweetness that pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon notes in the soup. Think carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, a side of herbed rice can soak up every drop of that luscious broth, bringing a wonderful texture to your meal.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: These delightful bites add another layer of Mediterranean essence to your table, with their savory filling complementing the soup’s brightness.
Chilled White Wine: Sipping a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a Greek Assyrtiko creates a harmonious balance with the soup’s flavors, enhancing the dining experience.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet invigorates the palate after the warm meal, finishing off your evening on a refreshing note.

Creating a delicious array of these pairings around Avgolemono will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone feeling cherished and satisfied. Enjoy!

How to Store and Freeze Avgolemono

Fridge: Store leftover Greek lemon chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days; ensure orzo is added freshly to maintain texture.

Freezer: Freeze the soup without orzo in a labeled container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove, then add freshly cooked orzo.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much.

Airtight Guidance: Always seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the soup’s delicious flavors.

Make Ahead Options

Avgolemono — Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the base of the soup (without the orzo or egg mixture) up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the vegetables, add the chicken and stock, and let the mixture cool before refrigerating. To maintain the soup’s silky texture, cook the orzo fresh right before serving and temper the egg yolks with hot broth on the day you intend to enjoy it. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to go with minimal effort. Just reheat the soup gently, stir in the freshly cooked orzo, and finish with the egg-lemon mixture, resulting in a bowl of Avgolemono that’s just as delightful as when you first made it!

Avgolemono — Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to use that instead—just add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

How should I store leftovers?
You can store your Greek lemon chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you add orzo, I suggest storing that separately to avoid mushiness. Just reheat the soup gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Can I freeze Avgolemono?
Very much! To freeze your soup, do so without the orzo. Pour it into a labeled airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to have it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked orzo to finish.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your soup has thickened after refrigeration, just add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating to get it back to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally.

Are there dietary restrictions I need to consider?
If you have allergies, it’s essential to ensure that the chicken stock you use is free from common allergens. For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice. Always double-check labels if you’re serving this to guests with specific dietary needs.