Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Recipe | Easy & Authentic
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Discover the best Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) recipe! Creamy, tangy, and comforting, this easy recipe is perfect for a healthy, hearty meal.
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- ALT Text: Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Introduction (with Hook)
If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and tangy soup, look no further than Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono). This traditional Greek dish combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and velvety egg to create a bowl of pure comfort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a must-try. In this post, you’ll learn how to make the best Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it your own.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Avgolemono
- Variations & Serving Suggestions
- FAQ
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe stays true to the traditional Greek Avgolemono soup.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners.
- Customizable: Swap rice for orzo, make it keto-friendly, or add your favorite veggies.
- Healthy & Comforting: Packed with protein, vitamins, and a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:
- Chicken: Use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for the best flavor.
- Rice or Orzo: Traditional Avgolemono uses rice, but orzo is a great alternative.
- Eggs: These create the creamy texture without adding dairy.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for that signature tang.
- Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought, ensure it’s high-quality.
- Onion & Garlic: For a flavorful base.
- Olive Oil: A staple in Greek cooking.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Follow these simple steps to create the best Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Return the chicken to the pot and add chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare the Avgolemono Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until frothy.
- Slowly add a ladle of hot broth to the mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it, and return it to the soup.
- Stir in the Avgolemono mixture and cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Avgolemono
- Temper the Eggs: Always add hot broth slowly to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same vibrant flavor.
- Don’t Overheat: Once the Avgolemono mixture is added, avoid boiling the soup.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Make It Keto-Friendly: Replace rice or orzo with cauliflower rice.
- Add Veggies: Carrots, celery, or spinach make great additions.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook the chicken, broth, and aromatics on low for 6-8 hours. Add the Avgolemono mixture before serving.
- Serve with Bread: Pair with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.
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Use a WordPress plugin like WP Recipe Maker to include:
- Ingredients: Chicken, rice, eggs, lemon juice, etc.
- Instructions: Step-by-step process.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes.
- Nutrition Facts: Calories, protein, carbs, etc.
FAQ
What is Avgolemono?
Avgolemono is a traditional Greek sauce made with eggs, lemon juice, and broth. It’s often used to thicken soups and stews.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the soup without the Avgolemono mixture. Add it just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the Best Rice for Avgolemono?
Short-grain rice works best, but you can also use long-grain or basmati.
Can I Freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze Avgolemono soup, as the egg mixture may separate when reheated.
Conclusion
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a timeless recipe that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen!