Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Last updated on December 10, 2025

When I think of comfort food, Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup always comes to mind. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth, reminiscent of childhood afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the zesty aroma of lemon mingled with the savory scent of chicken simmering on the stove. The first time I attempted to make this delightful soup, I nervously fumbled my way through the process, worried I wouldn’t capture that same essence. But here’s the good news: this recipe truly is a simple and doable masterpiece, even for those cooking it for the first time. Let’s dive in together and turn your kitchen into a cozy haven filled with the wonderful smell of Avgolemono!

Why I Love This Recipe of Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

There’s something undeniably special about Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup that resonates with me. Maybe it’s the bright, tangy flavor of lemon that dances on my palate or the tender, shredded chicken that reminds me of family gatherings. What I appreciate most is how accessible this recipe is for beginner cooks. It requires minimal prep time, yet it yields a dish that feels sophisticated, making it perfect for busy families like mine. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup after a hearty meal—a major win in my book! Whether you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just looking for a cozy meal, this soup offers a comforting embrace with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this lovely soup:

Essentials

1 tablespoon olive oil: This is the base for sautéing our vegetables and adding flavor.
1 medium onion, diced: Onions contribute a lovely sweetness and depth to the soup.
1 medium carrot, diced: Carrots add a natural sweetness and beautiful color.
2-3 celery stalks, diced: Celery provides crunch and enhances the overall flavor.
2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Garlic makes everything better, adding heartiness to the soup.
2 bay leaves: Bay leaves infuse a subtle aroma as they simmer.
2 chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 350 g total): The heart of the dish! Chicken breasts become tender and flavorful.
6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken stock: A good quality chicken stock forms the flavorful base.
3/4 cup (175 g) orzo: This tiny pasta adds a delightful chewiness to the soup.
Juice of 1 lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the soup and adds that classic tang.
2 egg yolks: Egg yolks help create a silky texture and rich flavor.
A handful of fresh dill: Fresh dill offers an herbaceous note that ties everything together.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: To season and enhance the flavors.

Optional Add-Ons

Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spinach or Swiss chard: Leafy greens can be stirred in towards the end for added nutrition.
Chickpeas: If you want to increase the protein content, chickpeas can make a delicious addition.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly; just pull it apart and mix it in during the last steps.
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or any hearty vegetables, and vegetable stock in place of chicken stock.
If you can’t find orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or quinoa may work as a fantastic substitute.

How to Make Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Step-by-Step

Ready to cook? Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this delicious Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:

1. Sauté the Base

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally, letting their natural sweetness develop.

2. Add Aromatics

Next, toss in the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute, just until you can smell that delightful garlic aroma wafting through your kitchen. Add the bay leaves, chicken breasts, and chicken stock, stirring everything together.

3. Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for a few moments. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer quietly for about 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to blend beautifully.

4. Prepare for the Orzo

After the 15 minutes are up, carefully take out the chicken breasts and the bay leaves. Stir in the orzo and let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until it’s tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

5. Shred and Return the Chicken

While the orzo is cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot, stirring it back into the soup.

6. Create the Avgolemono Mixture

While the orzo continues to cook, take a small bowl and whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice. To temper this mixture—ensuring that the eggs don’t scramble—carefully ladle out 1-2 cups of hot soup and slowly whisk it into the egg-lemon mixture.

7. Combine and Cook

Now, pour the tempered egg-lemon mixture back into the pot and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring gently. You’ll notice the soup becomes richer and creamier as it simmers.

8. Final Touches

Stir in the fresh dill and taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

9. Serve It Up

Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! Ladle the Avgolemono into bowls and garnish with extra fresh dill for a lovely presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, it’s helpful to keep a few common pitfalls in mind:

Cooking the Chicken Too Long

Avoid overcooking the chicken breasts, as they can become dry. Keep an eye on them—15 minutes should be just right!

Forgetting to Temper the Eggs

If you skip the tempering step for the egg-lemon mixture, your eggs may scramble in the hot soup. Always mix with a bit of hot broth first to ensure that smooth texture.

Not Cutting Ingredients Uniformly

Make sure to dice your vegetables evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate and allows for even flavor distribution throughout the soup.

Inconsistent Seasoning

Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning during cooking can make or break your dish. Don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste.

Easy Variations for Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Feel free to tailor the Avgolemono recipe to your taste with these easy variations:

Mediterranean Twist

Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to the soup for a Mediterranean flair. This not only boosts flavor but adds an interesting texture.

Mushroom Add-In

Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon.

Hearty Grains

Swap the orzo for quinoa or farro to create a more filling soup that adds a different nutty flavor and chewiness.

Spicy Kick

If your family enjoys a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist to this classic soup.

Serving Suggestions for Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Now that your Avgolemono is ready to serve, here are some lovely ideas to accompany your meal:

Crusty Bread

Serve with slices of crusty baguette or rustic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the vibrant soup.

Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette brings balance to the richness of the soup. Use ingredients like mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for added freshness.

Cheesy Sprinkle

Top each bowl with grated Parmesan or feta cheese before serving. The cheese melts into the soup, adding a creamy layer of flavor.

Lemon Wedges

Provide lemon wedges on the side for those who want to kick up the citrus flavor even more.

Conclusion

Cooking Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is far easier than it might seem. This delicious soup is a flexible recipe, allowing you to customize it to fit your family’s taste. Cozy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, it’s the perfect dish to warm hearts and bellies alike. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—your future self will thank you for the experience, and your family will appreciate the hearty meal.

I’d love to hear how your creation turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s connect over our love for cozy cooking.

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FAQs About Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

What is Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Avgolemono is a traditional Greek soup made with chicken, orzo pasta, and a rich sauce of egg and lemon that creates a creamy, tangy finish.

Can I make Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. However, you may want to add the orzo just before serving to prevent it from becoming overly soft.

Is Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is filled with lean chicken breast and nutritious vegetables, while the use of egg yolks in moderation can contribute to a healthy diet.

What can I serve with Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Some great accompaniments include crusty bread, a light salad, or even cheesy garlic bread for a comforting meal.

Can I freeze Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

You can freeze the soup, but I recommend leaving the orzo out and adding it in fresh when you reheat the soup to maintain the texture.

With its nostalgic roots and heartwarming preparation, this Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is bound to become a staple in your household. Enjoy!

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