Description

Welcome to the heart of Greek cuisine with this delightful Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono. This traditional dish is not just a soup; it’s a comforting bowl of warmth that is filled with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon, the tender embrace of chicken, and the creamy richness brought forth without any cream. Originating from the Mediterranean, Avgolemono has a long-standing history in Greek households and is often served on special occasions, making it a sentimental family favorite.

What makes this soup truly special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures: the aromatic sauté of vegetables, the unique creaminess from the egg-lemon mixture, and the heartiness of shredded chicken wrapped in nourishing broth. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress at dinner parties, a recipe to warm your soul on chilly nights, or simply a flavorful meal to enjoy any day of the week, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup has you covered. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, inviting both novice cooks and seasoned chefs to experience the joy of traditional Greek cooking.

As you embark on this culinary journey, prepare to savor the fragrant aromas that will fill your kitchen and enjoy the rewarding feeling of creating a dish that evokes a sense of harmony and hospitality characteristic of Greece.

Ingredients

• For the Soup Base:
• - 2 tablespoons olive oil
• - 1 medium onion, diced
• - 2 celery stalks, diced
• - 2 carrots, diced
• - 3 cloves garlic, minced
• - ½ cup Arborio rice
• - 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• - 1 bay leaf
• - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
• For the Lemon-Egg Mixture:
• - ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 large lemons)
• - 2 large eggs
• For Garnish:
• - 2½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• - Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Substitutions and Variations:
• If you want to adjust the flavors, consider using:
• - Brown rice or quinoa in place of Arborio rice (note that cooking times may vary)
• - Rotisserie chicken for faster preparation or leftover chicken for an easy meal
• - Fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a different herbal note
• - A splash of white wine added during the saute stage can introduce depth to the flavor
• - For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the chicken, adding more vegetables like spinach or kale for hearty nutrition

Preparation Method

1. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots; sauté until tender and onion is translucent, about three minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 20 seconds; season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in ½ cup of Arborio rice to coat with the oil mixture.
5. Pour in six cups of low-sodium chicken stock and add a bay leaf; bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes until rice is tender.
6. Add shredded chicken to the pot and stir occasionally while maintaining a gentle simmer.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup lemon juice and two eggs until light and frothy.
8. Temper the egg mixture by slowly adding two cups of hot broth while whisking constantly.
9. Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the soup while stirring continuously.
10. Stir in 2½ tablespoons of freshly chopped dill; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
11. Serve the soup in bowls, garnishing with extra dill if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

A wonderful bonus tip to elevate your dining experience is to serve this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light Greek salad. The bread can be perfect for dipping, while the refreshing salad provides a crisp contrast to the creamy soup. If you want to prepare a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with some traditional mushroom or spinach pie, known as Spanakopita or Sponja.

For storage, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, be mindful that the rice may absorb additional broth over time, thickening the soup. To remedy this, simply add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Now that you’ve crafted this delightful Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you're celebrating a tradition rich with flavors that tells the story of Greece’s culinary landscape. Each spoonful warms not only your stomach but also your heart, invoking the essence of family gatherings and cherished memories.

Consider exploring other dishes that accompany this hearty soup, such as Greek vegetarian moussaka or lemony grilled chicken skewers, both of which will enhance your culinary adventures. We invite you to share this cherished recipe with friends and family – let them experience the comforting embrace of Avgolemono! Keep browsing through our site for more delightful Mediterranean recipes and tips to make the most of your cooking journey. Happy cooking!