Comforting Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono. The moment you lift the spoon to your lips, the rich aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug, promising a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Cozy Chicken Noodle Casserole This soup is not just food; it’s an experience zesty lemon mingling with tender chicken and creamy egg, all wrapped up in a cozy broth that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.

I first tasted Avgolemono while visiting my Greek grandmother, who insisted on making it every time I stepped foot in her kitchen. I remember standing on my tiptoes, trying to peek into her bubbling pot as she stirred with a smile that could light up the whole house. Now, every time I make this soup, it takes me right back to those cherished moments. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when your soul needs some cheering up. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you coming back for second helpings!

Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 2-3 medium-sized breasts work best; they’ll cook quickly and shred beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor; store-bought or homemade works wonders.
• Fresh Lemons: You’ll need both juice and zest for maximum brightness; select firm lemons for the juiciest results.
• Eggs: Large eggs are ideal; we’ll whip these into the soup for that signature creaminess without dairy. For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe.
• Rice: Uncooked long-grain white rice is preferred; it adds heartiness and texture to this lovely bowl of joy.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish, fresh parsley not only looks pretty but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by placing your chicken breasts in a large pot filled with chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat and let it simmer until cooked through about 15-20 minutes should do the trick! Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool before shredding.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

While waiting for your chicken to cool down, add rice directly into the same pot of broth. Allow it to cook on low heat until tender this usually takes around 15 minutes. The rice will soak up all those fabulous flavors from the broth!

Step 3: Whisk Together Eggs and Lemon

In a separate bowl, crack your eggs and whisk them vigorously until frothy. Then add in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest while continuing to whisk it’s like giving those eggs a spa day!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the rice is tender and your chicken has cooled enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Slowly pour about a cup of hot broth into your egg mixture while whisking continuously this tempers the eggs so they don’t scramble.

Step 5: Add It All Back Together

Now return everything the shredded chicken and tempered egg-lemon mixture to the pot with remaining broth. Stir well until combined and warm through over low heat just make sure you don’t let it boil!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle this magnificent Avgolemono into bowls and garnish generously with fresh parsley. Protein-packed egg salad Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a light salad for an unforgettable meal!

This soup truly encapsulates comfort food at its finest each spoonful reminds us why we gather around tables filled with love (and maybe too much bread). Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the delightful Avgolemono sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve together, creating that perfect harmony of taste. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic kick, or toss in some spinach for added nutrition. Your soup, your rules!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent curdling of the egg-lemon mixture while keeping all those delicious flavors intact.

Cooking this Avgolemono always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the kitchen, and everyone clamored for seconds (and sometimes thirds). Those moments make cooking feel so rewarding!

FAQs:

What is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, known as Avgolemono, is a traditional Greek dish made with chicken, rice or orzo, and a rich lemon-egg sauce. This comforting soup combines the flavors of tender chicken and zesty lemon, offering a unique and satisfying taste. The egg mixture adds creaminess without heavy cream, making it lighter and refreshing. It’s a popular choice for those seeking warmth on a chilly day or when feeling under the weather.

How do you make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?

To prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, start by simmering chicken in water with vegetables until tender. Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Cook rice or orzo in the broth until tender. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and lemon juice. Gradually add hot broth to the egg mixture to temper it before stirring it back into the pot. Finally, mix in shredded chicken and season to taste for a delightful bowl of Avgolemono.

Can I use leftover chicken for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?

Yes! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Soup quickly. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the broth along with rice or orzo. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is cooked correctly while incorporating the flavors of your leftover chicken. This method saves time while still delivering comforting flavors in your bowl of Avgolemono.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) healthy?

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is generally considered a healthy option due to its light ingredients like lean chicken and fresh lemon juice. The addition of rice or orzo provides carbohydrates for energy. The egg-based sauce adds protein without excess fat compared to cream-based soups. Lemon dessert option This balance makes Avgolemono a nutritious comfort food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet while still satisfying your cravings.

Conclusion for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono):

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant lemon flavor, and creamy egg sauce in one bowl. Making this soup at home allows you to enjoy its rich flavors while ensuring freshness and quality ingredients. Garlic Butter Chicken pairing Whether using leftover chicken or preparing it from scratch, Avgolemono remains an iconic dish in Greek cuisine that warms both body and soul. Enjoy this delightful soup any time you need something comforting!