Avgolemono Soup – Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Avgolemono is the heart of Greek comfort food — a silky, lemony chicken soup that combines bright citrus flavor with the richness of eggs and tender chicken. This cozy dish is simple to make yet feels elegant, perfect for chilly nights or when you crave something nourishing and deeply satisfying. The combination of eggs, lemon juice, and chicken stock gives Avgolemono its iconic creamy texture — all without a drop of cream.

Why You’ll Love This Avgolemono Recipe

This Avgolemono soup is a bowl of sunshine. The lemon brings a refreshing tang, the eggs create a silky texture, and the chicken adds satisfying protein. What makes it special is how light yet comforting it feels — both rich and refreshing at once. It’s also a one-pot meal, quick to make, and easily adaptable if you have leftover chicken or prefer rice instead of orzo.

Beyond taste, Avgolemono has cultural roots that go deep into Greek tradition, where the egg-lemon mixture (avgolemono) is used not just in soups, but in stews and sauces to add brightness and depth to meals.

Essential Ingredients for Avgolemono

• Olive Oil: Provides the base flavor and helps sauté the vegetables for a rich, aromatic start.
• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Carrot: Contributes color and a touch of earthy sweetness.
• Celery: Balances the sweetness of the carrots and adds freshness.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory notes — fresh cloves are a must.
• Bay Leaves: Add subtle herbal aroma that complements the lemon.
• Chicken: The main protein source — use breasts for lean meat or leftover rotisserie for convenience.

• Chicken Stock: Forms the soul of the soup; use high-quality stock for best results.
• Orzo: A small, rice-shaped pasta that thickens the soup beautifully. Rice is a good alternative if preferred.
• Egg Yolks: Whisked with lemon juice to create the signature creamy consistency of Avgolemono.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for authentic tang and brightness.
• Fresh Dill: Adds fragrance and a fresh herbal finish. Parsley can also be used.
• Salt and Pepper: Bring all flavors into harmony.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you’re missing something, try these simple substitutions:
• Rice for Orzo: Use medium-grain rice for a more traditional version. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Parsley instead of Dill: A milder option that still complements the lemon well.
• Whole Eggs instead of Yolks: If you prefer a lighter consistency, use whole eggs — but temper carefully to avoid curdling.
• Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken shortens cooking time and adds a deeper roasted flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Avgolemono

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Chicken:
   Stir in the minced garlic, cook for another minute, then add bay leaves, chicken breasts, and chicken stock.
3. Simmer the Broth:
   Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Cook the Orzo:
   Remove chicken and bay leaves. Add orzo to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
   Use two forks to shred the chicken, then return it to the soup.
6. Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture:
   In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Slowly ladle 1–2 scoops of hot broth into the bowl while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
7. Combine and Finish:
   Pour the egg-lemon mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously. Cook for another 5 minutes over low heat — never boiling — until the soup thickens slightly.
8. Add Fresh Dill and Seasoning:
   Stir in chopped dill, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Avgolemono Soup

• Temper the Eggs: Always temper before adding to the pot to prevent scrambling.
• Don’t Boil After Adding Eggs: Keep the heat low for a smooth texture.
• Add Butter for Richness: For an extra velvety mouthfeel, melt 1–2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil at the start.
• Adjust Lemon to Taste: Add more juice if you love tang, or reduce slightly for a milder soup.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Dill or parsley both add brightness that balances the richness of the broth.

Pairing Ideas and Creative Variations

Avgolemono pairs beautifully with:
• Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Greek Salad: A fresh contrast of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple sides like zucchini or eggplant balance the meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable stock for a lighter option.

For meal prep, this soup stores wonderfully. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently without boiling. You can also freeze Avgolemono for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight and warm slowly, adding extra broth if needed.

A Taste of Greek Comfort at Home

Avgolemono is more than a soup — it’s a bowl of Greek tradition and soul-warming comfort. With its balance of brightness and richness, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something cozy yet refreshing, this Greek lemon chicken soup is the perfect homemade comfort.

Conclusion

Avgolemono is the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing — a Greek lemon chicken soup that feels light yet deeply satisfying. Its velvety texture, bright citrus aroma, and delicate egg-based broth make it a dish you’ll want to revisit often. Whether you’re introducing yourself to Greek cuisine or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, Avgolemono delivers every time. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this timeless soup proves that wholesome flavor doesn’t have to be complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Avgolemono

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: A rich and hearty soup that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and mild spice. Its cozy texture and comforting warmth make it a great companion recipe to Avgolemono, offering a similar one-pot creamy delight with a Southwestern twist.
• Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: This homestyle chicken soup is perfect for those who love comforting, classic flavors. The light broth, tender noodles, and seasoned rotisserie chicken echo the warmth and simplicity of Greek Avgolemono while keeping the texture familiar and soothing.
• Mediterranean Lamb Stew: Inspired by coastal Mediterranean cuisine, this stew blends aromatic herbs, tender lamb, and a hint of lemon. It pairs beautifully with the bright, citrusy character of Avgolemono, offering a deeper and heartier take on traditional Greek-style comfort food.

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