Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Last updated on June 9, 2025

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where we explore the heartwarming world of Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup! This dish is often referred to by its traditional name, Avgolemono soup, which translates to “egg-lemon” – a nod to its zesty flavor and creamy texture. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a boost, this soup is not just fulfilling; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Let’s dive into the soul of this dish, revealing why it has won the hearts of many around the world.

Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

---

• Author: Joe Peacock
• Total Time: 4 hrs
• Yield: Serves 6–8 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting, creamy Greek avgolemono soup made with chicken, rice, eggs, and lemon.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.6 kg whole chicken
• 6 black peppercorns
• 2 onions, roughly chopped
• 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 300 g medium or long‑grain rice
• 4 eggs
• 2 lemons, juiced, plus pared zest to serve (optional)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra pinch to serve
• Salt, to taste

---

Instructions

1. Place chicken, peppercorns, onions, celery, and carrots into a large saucepan. Cover with cold water and bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hr until chicken is tender.
2. Remove from heat and cool completely (about 1.5 hr).
3. Shred the chicken meat, discarding bones and veg. Strain stock and measure approximately 2.5 L; return stock to pot.
4. Bring stock to boil, stir in rice, reduce heat, cover and cook 15 min until rice is tender. Remove from heat.
5. In a bowl, whisk eggs, juice of 1½ lemons, cinnamon, and pepper. Temper by slowly whisking in hot stock (without rice), repeat until creamy.
6. Pour tempered egg mixture into rice. Add shredded chicken. Simmer gently for 3–4 min, stirring constantly, then stir in remaining ½ lemon juice to taste.
7. Serve immediately or let stand 10 min to thicken more. Garnish with extra cinnamon and lemon zest if desired.

Notes

• Tempering the eggs slowly with hot stock prevents curdling.
• Don’t let the soup boil after adding the egg mixture.
• Letting stand for 10 min thickens it further.
• Garnish with extra cinnamon and lemon zest for an authentic finish.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 2 hrs (plus 1.5 hr cooling)
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmer, tempering
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/8 of batch)
• Calories: 382 kcal
• Sugar: 0–0.1 g
• Sodium: 0.4 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 0.7 g
• Protein: 30 g

Keywords: avgolemono, Greek soup, chicken rice lemon soup, creamy chicken soup

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup is a fantastic blend of simple ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. The tangy lemon juice, combined with the heartiness of chicken and rice, makes for a comforting bowl that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you are serving it to a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, its rich flavors promise to satisfy your taste buds.

Key Benefits:

• Nutritional Value: Packed with protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice, this soup is a balanced meal in a bowl.
• Easy Preparation: The straightforward steps mean that you can whip this soup up without any fuss.
• Customizable Recipe: You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Here’s a detailed list of what you will need to create this comforting soup. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces: Use boneless chicken for easier handling if you like.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: This adds a sweet and aromatic base to the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the flavors and gives a tasty kick.
• 1 cup rice: Long grain rice works best, helping to absorb the broth beautifully.
• 6 cups chicken broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works too.
• 1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness and acidity.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb gives the soup a lovely warm and earthy fragrance.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of spiciness to balance the soup.
• Olive oil: For sautéing; it adds depth and character to the soup. (Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.)

Optional Add-Ons:

• Fresh parsley or dill: For garnishing, adding freshness to each bowl.
• Eggs: For traditional Avgolemono, to make the soup even creamier.
• Vegetables: Carrots or celery can be added for extra texture and nutrition.

How to Make Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup – Step by Step

Creating this comforting soup is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup turns out perfect!

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Cut the chicken into manageable pieces if they aren’t already. This preparation will make the cooking process smooth.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.

3. Brown the Chicken

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook them for approximately 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This browning step adds deeper flavors to the broth.

4. Rice and Broth

Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to add the rice. Stir it into the mixture, letting it absorb some of the flavors for a minute. Then, pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth, mixing well to combine.

5. Season the Soup

Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the soup.

6. Simmer

Now, bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the rice to become tender.

7. Final Touches

After 20 minutes, check the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. You can shred it into smaller pieces for easier serving if you prefer. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.

8. Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls. And here’s where you can get creative – garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or dill if desired. It adds a beautiful color and a fresh taste that enhances the overall dish.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Enjoying your Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup can be an experience in itself. Beyond simple serving, consider these options to elevate your meal:

• Crusty Bread: Serve your soup with warm, crusty bread or pita. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious broth.
• Salad: A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese makes for a refreshing side.
• Wine Pairing: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the lemony flavors of the soup.
• Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a cooling effect, balancing the soup’s warmth.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Achieving the perfect Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking game:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and lemon juice significantly enhance the soup’s flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice if you can.
• Homemade Broth: If time permits, making your own chicken broth can transform the soup. It will taste richer and more wholesome.
• Control the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice. If it becomes too mushy, it can affect the soup’s texture. Adjust the cooking time based on your rice type.
• Adjust Lemon Flavor: The zing of lemon is personal! Add the lemon juice little by little while tasting to get your preferred tartness.
• Incorporate Greens: Towards the end of cooking, toss in some fresh spinach or kale for an extra health boost and vibrant color.

Easy Variations for Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

While the traditional recipe is delightful on its own, you can chase after different tastes and textures. Here are some easy variations to try:

• Vegetarian Version: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of chicken, and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. This keeps the heartiness with added protein.
• Quinoa Substitute: Swap rice for quinoa for a nuttier flavor and a boost of nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during sautéing for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a splash of coconut milk just before serving for a richer, creamier texture.

Storage Tips for Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

This soup can be made in advance or saved for later. Here’s how to properly store it:

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container since the soup will expand when frozen.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, to restore the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup is a timeless recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly. With its bright flavors, nutrient-packed ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends. Whether you choose to keep it traditional or explore variations, each bowl offers a taste of comfort.

So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and venture into the kitchen. Create a meal that speaks to the soul and resonates with every spoonful of this classic Greek dish.

FAQs About Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

Looking for more delicious recipes? Follow us on Pinterest and Facebook!