Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) – Easy & Delicious!

Name: Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) – Easy & Delicious!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast ((or thighs)); 6 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup orzo or rice; 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves ((minced)); 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh dill or parsley ((for garnish))

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What is Avgolemono? (A Taste of Greek Tradition)

Avgolemono (αβγολέμονο) is a classic Greek lemon chicken soup known for its velvety texture and bright, citrusy flavor. Traditionally served as a comfort food during cold seasons or as a remedy for colds, this dish combines:

Tender shredded chicken
Orzo or rice (for heartiness)
Egg-lemon emulsion (creamy without dairy!)

Fun Fact: The name “avgolemono” comes from the Greek words “avgo” (egg) and “lemono” (lemon)—literally meaning “egg-lemon” soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 35 minutes (perfect for weeknights).
Naturally gluten-free (if using rice instead of orzo).
High-protein & low-carb friendly (great for fitness meals).
Creamy without cream (thanks to the egg-lemon technique).

Chef’s Tip: “The secret to perfect avgolemono is tempering the eggs slowly—this prevents curdling and ensures a silky texture!”

Ingredients & Substitutions

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast (or thighs for richer flavor)
6 cups chicken broth (homemade preferred)
½ cup orzo or rice (for gluten-free, use quinoa)
3 eggs (room temperature)
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

Flavor Boosters

2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
Fresh dill or parsley (for garnish)

Dietary Swaps:

Vegan? → Use tofu & veggie broth.
Keto? → Skip orzo, add extra chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Orzo

In a pot, simmer chicken breast in broth for 15 mins.
Remove chicken, shred, then add orzo to the broth.

Whisking eggs and lemon juice for Greek avgolemono soup — Pro tip: Tempering the egg-lemon mixture slowly ensures a silky, lump-free soup!

Step 2: Prepare the Avgolemono Sauce

Whisk eggs + lemon juice until frothy.
Temper with hot broth (prevents scrambling).

Simmering chicken and orzo in broth for Greek lemon soup — Cooking the chicken and orzo in homemade broth builds the base flavor of avgolemono.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

Stir the egg-lemon mix into the soup.
Add shredded chicken, garnish, and enjoy!

Traditional Greek avgolemono soup served with crusty bread and olive oil drizzle — The ultimate comfort food: Greek avgolemono soup paired with warm bread for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

Warm pita bread
Greek salad
Olives & feta cheese

Best Served: Hot, with extra lemon wedges.

FAQs

What does lemon do to chicken soup?

Lemon brightens the flavors, cuts through richness, and adds vitamin C. In avgolemono, it combines with eggs to create the signature creamy texture without dairy.

How long can chicken soup stay out?

Never leave avgolemono at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F/32°C). The egg-lemon mixture makes it more perishable than regular soups.

What are the benefits of adding lemon to soup?

Lemon boosts immunity (vitamin C), aids digestion, balances flavors, and helps absorb iron from the chicken. It also acts as a natural preservative.

What is the Greek lemon soup called?

It’s called avgolemono (αβγολέμονο), meaning “egg-lemon” in Greek. It’s a classic comfort food made with chicken, broth, eggs, and lemon.

What is the purpose of lemon in chicken?

Lemon tenderizes the chicken, adds brightness, and enhances the savory notes. In avgolemono, it’s essential for the creamy emulsion with eggs.