Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono):

Introduction:

Welcome, food lovers! If you’re looking for a hearty yet light soup with a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is the dish for you. This comforting soup combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and a luscious lemon-egg broth that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this traditional Greek dish is a must-try!

Ingredients (Serves 6):

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
1/2 cup uncooked rice (long grain or arborio)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Base
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Step 3: Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon-Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Slowly whisk in the lemon juice. Gradually ladle 1 cup of the hot soup broth into the lemon-egg mixture while continuously whisking. This step tempers the eggs, preventing them from curdling.

Step 5: Finish the Soup
Slowly pour the lemon-egg mixture back into the soup, stirring constantly. Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a creamy, velvety dish with bright lemony flavors and tender chicken. The addition of eggs creates a rich texture without the need for cream, making it a light yet comforting meal.

Tips for Success:

Temper the Eggs Carefully: Gradually add the hot broth to the egg mixture while whisking to avoid curdling.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the soup’s vibrant flavor.
Customize the Rice: Arborio rice gives the soup a creamy texture, but long-grain rice or even orzo works well too.
Cook Over Low Heat: After adding the lemon-egg mixture, keep the soup on low heat to prevent curdling.
Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free if needed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 550mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes! Add the pre-cooked rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup without adding the lemon-egg mixture. Reheat gently and add the mixture just before serving for the best texture.

3. What can I substitute for rice?
You can use orzo, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

4. Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best to freeze it before adding the lemon-egg mixture. Add the mixture after reheating for a fresh and creamy texture.

5. Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! Turkey, shrimp, or tofu are great substitutes for chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with a fresh Greek salad, warm pita bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Related Recipes:

For more comforting and flavorful dishes, check out these recipes:

Conclusion:

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a delightful blend of comfort and brightness, perfect for any time of the year. With its creamy texture and refreshing lemony flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Greece right at home!