Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (2024)

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Craving a bowl of comfort with a twist? Dive into our heartwarming Avgolemono Soup recipe, a Greek classic that combines tender chicken, the zesty tang of lemon, and the silky richness of eggs into a deliciously creamy soup.

Today, I’m excited to share something that’s close to my heart and kitchen – a bowlful of comfort known as Avgolemono Soup, or as I like to call it, the ultimate Greek hug in a bowl. This isn't just any chicken soup; it’s a journey into the heart of Greek cuisine, combining tender chicken, the bright punch of lemon, and the silky richness of eggs into one mouthwatering dish.

Let's break down this comforting soup, starting with the chicken. While I've experimented with everything from chicken breasts to chicken thighs, I’ve found that using a whole chicken gives you the most flavorful broth. However, for those days when time isn’t on our side (and let’s be honest, when is it?), grabbing a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store and using that shredded chicken is a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Now, the base of this traditional Greek lemon chicken soup isn’t just about the chicken; it's also about that deliciously rich broth. We're talking cups of chicken broth infused with the essence of fresh lemons and herbs, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply out of this world. Whether you’ve spent hours simmering a whole chicken or you’re working with store-bought broth, the key is to have enough of it – because believe me, you’ll want lots of this liquid gold.

The real magic of this classic Greek soup, however, lies in the egg-lemon mixture. Whole eggs and egg yolks are whisked together before being tempered with hot chicken broth. This technique ensures that when you introduce the egg mixture back into the pot, it thickens the soup into a creamy, dreamy texture without the need for cream. It’s a step that might sound a tad intimidating, but it’s actually pretty simple and totally worth it. Plus, it’s always a hit when I share this tip with friends who are diving into Greek recipes for the first time.

Let’s talk about the lemon, because in Avgolemono, lemon is everything. The zest and fresh lemon juice not only add a brightness that cuts through the richness but also transform the soup into a refreshing bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any season. I’m talking about squeezing those fresh lemons until you’ve got just the right tang to tickle your taste buds. It's that zest and juice that turn a delicious soup into an authentic Avgolemono soup experience.

For those who love a bit of texture in their soup, adding rice or even orzo can turn this Avgolemono recipe into a heartier meal – think of it as a Greek lemon chicken and rice soup that fills you up in the most comforting way possible. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some fresh dill? Fresh herbs like dill not only add a pop of color but also layer in flavors that complement the lemon beautifully.

Speaking of flavors, let’s not forget about the garnish. A sprinkle of fresh dill or even a bit more lemon zest right before serving can elevate this dish from homemade to something you’d expect to find in a cozy Greek restaurant.

I first fell in love with Avgolemono Soup during culinary school, where we were challenged to create traditional dishes from around the world. It was then I realized that Greek Avgolemono Soup isn’t just food; it’s a story of Greece served in a bowl, using simple ingredients like whole eggs, chicken, and lots of lemon to create something truly spectacular.

This Avgolemono soup recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I’m in need of a little comfort or when I want to share the warmth with family and friends. It’s one of those Greek recipes that remind you of the power of cooking to bring people together, offering a taste of Greek classic cuisine right at your dining table.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook ready to explore delicious recipes from around the globe, Avgolemono is a dish that promises to deliver. It’s a testament to the beauty of Greek cooking, where simplicity meets flavor to create a meal that’s both nourishing and uplifting.

So, next time you find yourself craving a bowl of comforting soup, remember that Avgolemono is just a pot away. It’s an easy meal that brings the essence of Greek cooking into your home, complete with the soothing flavors of chicken, the brightness of lemon, and the richness of an egg-lemon mixture that wraps you in warmth and comfort.

Trust me, once you’ve given this Greek classic a try, it will become a beloved dish in your recipe repertoire, earning rave reviews from everyone lucky enough to enjoy it. So, gather your ingredients, including those fresh lemons and cups of chicken broth, and embark on a culinary adventure to Greece with this authentic Avgolemono soup recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delicious recipe that connects you to the heart of Greek cuisine, one spoonful at a time.

How to Make Avgolemono Greek LemonChickenSoup

1. Get the Soup Started:Grab your largest, sturdiest pot – a Dutch oven is perfect for this. Warm up a glug of olive oil over a medium-high flame. Now, introduce your chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot for a nice little sauté session. You’re aiming for them to get just a bit soft and friendly with each other. After a few minutes, add in the garlic. This part is crucial – you want that garlic to hit the point where its aroma makes your kitchen smell like a gourmet haven, but it’s not taking on any color. Keep it golden, not brown.
2. The Broth and Rice:Time to pour in that chicken broth. Let’s turn up the heat and bring things to a lively boil. This is where your soup really starts to come together. Once you've got a rolling boil, gently sprinkle in your rice, along with a good pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Now, dial the heat back to a low simmer, the kind that whispers rather than shouts. Give it about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender and has absorbed all those lovely flavors. Stir in the dill for a fresh herby kick, followed by the cooked chicken to make it a hearty meal.
3. Mastering the Egg-Lemon Sauce (Tempering):Here’s where things get interesting. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and eggs until well combined. Now, let’s talk about tempering – this is the secret sauce of making your soup creamy without turning it into scrambled egg soup. You'll want to ladle in about two scoops of the hot broth from your pot, but here’s the trick: do it slowly, very slowly, all while whisking like your soup’s success depends on it (because it kinda does). This gradual warming up of the eggs is what tempering’s all about, preventing them from cooking too quickly and instead, integrating them into a smooth sauce to incorporate into your soup.
4. Bringing It All Together:Once your egg-lemon mixture is silky and temperate, it’s time to unite it with the rest of the soup. Gently pour the egg-lemon mixture into the pot, stirring steadily to weave it into the broth, transforming it into a creamy, dreamy concoction. This is the moment of transformation, so take it off the heat to avoid any mishaps.
5. Serving Your Masterpiece:Ladle your soup into bowls while it’s still warm. This is the kind of meal that loves company, so serve it with slices of your favorite crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping, scooping, and sopping up every last drop of this deliciousness.

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Serve with Homemade Sourdough Bread or your favorite crusty French Bread!

Love Soups? Try these favorites…

• Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Zuppa Toscana
• Chicken Noodle Soup
• Lasagna Soup
• Clam Chowder