Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe – Bright, Creamy & Comforting

This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a comforting yet light recipe bursting with citrusy brightness, silky texture, and nourishing ingredients. Packed with shredded chicken, rice, spinach, and fresh dill, this dairy-free soup becomes luxuriously creamy thanks to tempered eggs—no cream required. Whether you’re fighting off winter chills or craving a hearty but healthy bowl of soup, this easy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup comes together in under 35 minutes and delivers bold Mediterranean flavor in every spoonful.

Why This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup isn’t just a feel-good meal—it’s a nutritional powerhouse that’s simple to prepare. With lean protein, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables, it balances comfort and health perfectly. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests with something a little different from your average chicken soup. The creamy consistency without dairy makes it ideal for those with lactose intolerance or anyone looking for a light but filling meal.

Flavor-Building Ingredients You’ll Need

• Olive Oil: Adds a rich base for sautéing vegetables and enhancing the soup’s body
• Yellow Onion: Brings sweetness and depth to the broth
• Carrots: Lends natural sweetness and a tender bite
• Celery: Offers aromatic flavor and texture contrast
• Garlic: Provides a robust, savory backbone that lifts the entire dish
• Lemon Peel Strips: Infuses the broth with citrus oils for deep lemon flavor
• Dried Oregano: Adds a Mediterranean earthiness that complements the lemon
• Bay Leaves: Contribute subtle depth—be sure to remove them before serving
• Chicken Broth: Forms the hearty base—opt for bone broth for extra nutrients

• White Rice: Thickens the soup and makes it more satisfying
• Egg + Egg Yolk: Tempered to create a silky, dairy-free creamy texture
• Shredded Chicken: Adds lean protein—use rotisserie for convenience
• Spinach: Provides color, nutrients, and texture without altering flavor
• Fresh Dill: Brings a clean, herbal note that elevates the lemony base
• Lemon Juice: Brightens every bite—use freshly squeezed for the best flavor
• Salt + Pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors

Ingredient Swaps and Dietary Substitutions

• No Chicken? Use canned chickpeas for a vegetarian version—still hearty and protein-packed
• No Fresh Dill? While dried dill isn’t recommended, you can try fresh parsley or omit it entirely for a simpler finish
• No Rice? Substitute with orzo for a more traditional touch or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• No Spinach? Kale or chopped Swiss chard can be used in equal measure for similar nutrients and texture

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and lemon peel. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until veggies are tender and onion is translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for one more minute.
2. Build the Broth
   Add oregano, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add rice. Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until rice is just cooked. Remove bay leaves and lemon peels.
3. Temper the Eggs
   In a bowl, whisk together the egg and egg yolk. Gradually ladle in hot broth—just a little at a time—while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once fully tempered, slowly stir the egg mixture back into the pot, again whisking constantly.
4. Finish the Soup
   Add shredded chicken, spinach, dill, and lemon juice. Stir well and let the soup simmer gently for a few more minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the spinach is wilted. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Bowl

• Temper Slowly: This is crucial—add hot broth to the eggs slowly and whisk the whole time to prevent curdling
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and dill make a huge difference in flavor
• Don’t Skip the Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken to shave prep time
• Avoid Overheating: Once the eggs are added, keep the soup at low heat to preserve the creamy texture
• Don’t Freeze It: Due to the eggs, this soup doesn’t freeze well. Stick to refrigerating leftovers

What to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up that lemony broth
• Greek Salad: A fresh, crisp side that echoes the soup’s Mediterranean flavors
• Feta Toast: For an extra tangy, salty bite
• Stuffed Grape Leaves: A meze-style appetizer to round out your Greek-inspired meal
• Make-Ahead Tip: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days—just reheat gently to avoid curdling

Honoring the Greek Heritage of Avgolemono

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is inspired by the traditional Avgolemono, a creamy blend of lemon, broth, eggs, and rice. While this version adds a twist with spinach and uses rice over orzo, it still captures the soul of the original. Its name, Avgolemono, literally translates to “egg-lemon,” highlighting the core of this comforting classic. This modern interpretation is perfect for those wanting to explore Greek flavors without sacrificing convenience or simplicity.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is more than just a cozy meal — it’s a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired dish that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds. With its creamy texture, bright lemony tang, and nourishing ingredients like shredded chicken, eggs, and spinach, this dish is a flavorful way to warm up without feeling weighed down. Whether you’re prepping meals ahead or cooking a comforting weeknight dinner, this Avgolemono-style soup delivers both simplicity and soul. Add it to your regular rotation and enjoy the zesty, creamy comfort of Greek cuisine in one easy, satisfying bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe: This recipe is a close cousin to Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, featuring bright lemon flavor, tender chicken, and orzo pasta for a satisfying texture. It’s another Mediterranean-inspired bowl of comfort that’s creamy, light, and perfect for cozy evenings.
• Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup: For those who enjoy creamy textures and shredded chicken, this slow-cooked soup with gnocchi and tender vegetables is a hearty, comforting alternative. It’s great for busy nights and offers a similar cozy experience to Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: Rich, hearty, and packed with vegetables and shredded chicken, this stew provides a thicker, rustic version of a chicken soup while still delivering warmth and comfort akin to Avgolemono.

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