I’ll never forget the first time my yiayia (Greek grandmother) made her famous Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono as it’s known in Greece. The aroma of lemon and oregano would fill the entire house, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. As I sat at the table, the steaming bowl in front of me, the first spoonful was an explosion of flavors – the tangy lemon, the rich chicken broth, the tender chunks of chicken. It was comfort food at its finest, a hug in a bowl that instantly transported me back to my childhood in Athens.
Why This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
What sets this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and the silky, velvety texture. The key is in the careful tempering of the eggs, which creates a rich, creamy base that coats each bite of chicken and vegetable. The lemon juice provides a bright, tangy counterpoint, while the dried oregano adds an earthy, aromatic note. And the cornstarch helps to thicken the broth, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel.
But the real magic happens when all these elements come together, resulting in a soup that’s both comforting and refreshing – the ultimate antidote to a chilly day or a stuffy cold. It’s a dish that will transport you to the Mediterranean, with each spoonful evoking the warmth of the sun and the soul-soothing flavors of Greece.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: This lean protein is the star of the show, providing a substantial yet delicate base for the soup.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful broth is the foundation, adding depth and richness to the dish.
- 3 large eggs: These are the key to the soup’s signature silky texture, as they help to thicken and emulsify the broth.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons): This bright, tangy ingredient is the defining flavor of Avgolemono, cutting through the richness of the broth.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: This pantry staple helps to further thicken the soup, creating a velvety mouthfeel.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic garlic adds a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This classic Greek herb infuses the soup with earthy, herbal notes.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: These simple seasonings allow the other flavors to shine.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: A sprinkle of bright, herbaceous parsley adds a beautiful final touch.
Step-by-Step Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Instructions
Preparing Your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) comes together quickly, making it the perfect weeknight meal. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a whisk, and a few basic kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’ll cook evenly throughout the soup.
2- In your pot, bring the 8 cups of chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add the minced garlic and dried oregano, allowing the flavors to infuse the broth.
3- Carefully whisk the 3 large eggs and 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice together in a separate bowl, tempering the eggs to prevent curdling.
4- Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture into the simmering broth, whisking constantly, until the soup thickens and the eggs are fully incorporated, creating a silky, velvety base.
5- Sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, whisking vigorously to ensure there are no lumps and the soup reaches the desired consistency.
6- Finally, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Ladle the steaming Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) into bowls and garnish with fresh, chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success
- Be sure to temper the eggs properly by whisking the lemon juice into them gradually before adding the mixture to the hot broth. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best, most vibrant flavor. Pre-bottled juice can’t match the brightness and acidity of homemade.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste – some prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, while others enjoy a slightly milder version.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked orzo or rice to the soup, or serving it alongside a fresh Greek salad.
Serving and Storing Your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Perfect Pairings for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a complete meal on its own, serving 6 hearty portions. However, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a classic Greek feast, serve it alongside a fresh Greek salad, crusty bread, and a glass of crisp white wine. It’s also delightful with a side of roasted potatoes or a simple green vegetable like sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The best part about this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is that it keeps remarkably well. Once cooled, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through. The texture and flavor will remain intact, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Creative Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Variations
While the classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a true delight, there are several ways to put your own spin on this beloved dish. For a heartier version, try adding diced potatoes or orzo pasta. In the warmer months, swap out the chicken for shrimp or even firm tofu for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as fresh dill or mint, to create seasonal variations.
Making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Diet-Friendly
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) recipe is already quite healthy, with lean protein, a flavorful broth, and minimal added fats. However, for those with dietary restrictions, there are a few easy modifications you can make. To make it gluten-free, simply omit the cornstarch or use a gluten-free alternative. For a dairy-free version, you can skip the egg tempering and simply whisk the lemon juice directly into the broth. And for a low-carb or keto-friendly soup, serve it over riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe, adding a slightly richer, more flavorful element to the soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to become fully cooked.
Q: How long does it take to make this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?
A: As mentioned, the total time for this recipe is 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cook time. The key steps, like tempering the eggs and whisking the cornstarch, are quick and easy, making this a great weeknight meal option.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) recipe yields 6 hearty servings, making it the perfect meal for a family or a crowd. If you have a smaller household, the leftovers freeze beautifully for easy lunches or dinners down the line.
Q: What if the soup seems too thin or too thick?
A: If your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) appears too thin, you can thicken it further by whisking in an additional tablespoon or two of cornstarch. Conversely, if the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono), a comforting and nourishing dish that will transport you to the Aegean. This traditional recipe features a rich, velvety broth infused with the bright, citrusy notes of lemon, tender chicken, and a delicate egg-lemon sauce that adds a creamy, silky texture.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined.
4. Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture into the simmering broth, whisking constantly, to create the velvety avgolemono sauce.
5. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
– For a heartier meal, serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
– You can adjust the lemon flavor by adding more or less lemon juice to taste.
– Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Conclusion
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a true treasure, a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its silky, velvety broth, tender chicken, and bright, tangy lemon notes, it’s a meal that will warm your soul and transport you to the sun-drenched streets of Greece. Whether you’re seeking a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a soothing remedy for a chilly day, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a taste of the Mediterranean in every spoonful!
