Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a delightful dish that warms the soul. With its refreshing notes of lemon and hearty chicken, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. This recipe stands out for its comforting flavors, quick preparation time, and the ability to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or during a festive occasion, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of lemon and chicken creates a bright yet hearty flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or use leftover chicken for added convenience.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup after your meal—perfect for those who dislike doing dishes!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from the chicken and veggies, this soup is both filling and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and holding all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps in tempering the eggs smoothly into the soup without scrambling them.

Ingredients

For the 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)

For the Soup

• 6 cups chicken broth (or chicken bone broth)
• ½ cup dry white rice

For the Egg Mixture

• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk

For Flavor and Garnish

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

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

1. Bring a large pot or Dutch oven to medium heat.
2. Add a bit of olive oil.
3. Once hot, add onion, celery, carrots, and lemon peel. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Sauté for about 5 minutes until onions turn translucent and vegetables begin to soften.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add Broth and Rice

1. Stir in oregano, bay leaves, and chicken broth.
2. Increase heat to bring everything to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add rice; reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Egg Mixture

1. Remove bay leaves and lemon peels from the pot—discard them.
2. Lower heat to low.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and egg yolk.
4. Slowly ladle some broth into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper it.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the pot while whisking vigorously.
2. Add shredded chicken, spinach, dill, and lemon juice into the soup.
3. Stir well and cook for several more minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Taste your soup; adjust salt, pepper, lemon juice, or dill as necessary.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you are enjoying it solo or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your comfort food game.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Dill or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest for an extra citrus punch that brightens the soup.

Accompany with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.
• Garlic Bread: Try garlic bread for a flavorful twist that complements the soup’s taste.

Pair with Salad

• Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta adds freshness and crunch.
• Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette offers another layer of tangy flavor.

Serve as a Starter

• Appetizer Size: Serve smaller portions as a starter before a main meal to whet the appetite.
• In Small Bowls: Use small bowls for individual servings, perfect for entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Making this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup requires attention to detail for the best results. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken broth will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Control the Heat: Keep the heat low when adding eggs to prevent them from scrambling; temper them properly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice incrementally to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Add Spinach Last: For vibrant color and nutrients, add spinach at the end so it wilts without losing its bright green hue.
• Consider Broth Variations: Experiment with different types of chicken broth or even homemade broth for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Pairing your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables add smoky flavors that pair beautifully with the soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber provides nutritious grains alongside.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
4. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich chickpea salad dressed in lemon-tahini dressing enhances the meal’s Mediterranean flair.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs complement the soup’s flavors perfectly.
6. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips serve as a fun way to scoop up the delicious soup while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small mistakes when preparing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the tempering step: Failing to temper the eggs can cause them to scramble when added directly to the hot soup. Always whisk a little broth into the eggs first before combining them with the soup.
• Using old ingredients: Freshness matters, especially with herbs and vegetables. Check expiration dates and use fresh produce for the best flavor.
• Not adjusting seasoning: The balance of flavors is key. Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
• Overcooking spinach: Spinach wilts quickly, so add it towards the end of cooking. This keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact.
• Ignoring broth quality: The broth is the base of your soup. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Freeze portions of soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of each container since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a creamy and zesty dish made with chicken, rice, lemon juice, and egg.

Can I customize Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition or substitute different herbs based on your taste preferences.

How long does Greek Lemon Chicken Soup last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this soup will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses rice instead of noodles, making it gluten-free. Always check your broth if you’re avoiding gluten.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Definitely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver that adds flavor to your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own!