The Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe is one of those soul-warming dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. This silky and fragrant soup marries tender chicken, bright lemon juice, and silky eggs into a luscious broth that’s rich without being heavy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to lift your spirits, this classic Greek soup comes together fast and delivers a depth of flavor that’s truly unforgettable. Each spoonful is a perfect balance of creamy texture and zesty brightness that makes you want to savor every drop.

Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to layer flavor, enhance texture, and add a pop of color, creating a harmonious bowl of warmth and satisfaction.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good-quality Greek olive oil provides a fragrant, fruity base that elevates the soup’s depth.
Carrots (1/2 to 1 cup, finely chopped): Adds sweet earthiness and a subtle crunch that balances the soup’s creamy texture.
Celery (1/2 to 1 cup, finely chopped): Brings a fresh, slightly bitter note that enriches the broth’s complexity.
Green Onions (1/2 to 1 cup, finely chopped): Offers a mild onion flavor with a touch of vibrant green color.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Provides a warm, savory undertone crucial for a deeply flavored broth.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (8 cups): Forms the flavorful, comforting liquid foundation of the soup.
Bay Leaves (2): Infuse a subtle herbal aroma that enhances every spoonful.
Rice (1 cup): Absorbs the broth and adds heartiness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Used to season and bring all the components together harmoniously.
Cooked Boneless Chicken Breast (2 pieces, shredded): Provides tender protein to complement the velvety broth.
Freshly-Squeezed Lemon Juice (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that brightens and lifts the entire dish.
Large Eggs (2): Whisked in to create the signature creamy, silky texture of avgolemono sauce.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous garnish and an inviting pop of green.

How to Make Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped carrots, celery, and green onions and sauté them briefly until they’re softened and fragrant. Then stir in the garlic to let its aroma infuse the base. This step builds the foundation, releasing fresh, sweet, and savory notes that make the broth irresistibly aromatic.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth and Rice

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the bay leaves, then turn the heat up to high and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rice, along with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still holds its shape. At this stage, the rice beautifully absorbs the savory broth, creating a rich texture that’s both hearty and comforting.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Stir shredded cooked chicken breast into the pot once the rice has softened. Using tender, pre-cooked chicken makes this recipe quick and effortless, while still allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This addition adds a satisfying protein element and makes the soup a complete, nourishing meal.

Step 4: Prepare and Incorporate the Avgolemono Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and eggs until smooth. To prevent curdling and ensure a creamy consistency, slowly temper the eggs by whisking in two ladlefuls of hot broth from the soup. Once combined, gently pour the avgolemono sauce back into the pot, stirring carefully to blend it through the soup. Remove the pot from the heat immediately—this careful technique creates the signature silky, luxurious texture of the Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe without scrambling the eggs.

How to Serve Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a delightful burst of color and a bright, herbaceous finish that balances the richness of the soup. If you want to elevate the experience, add a small drizzle of your favorite quality olive oil right before serving to add extra richness and aroma.

Side Dishes

A crusty loaf of Greek country bread or warm pita rounds perfectly complement this soup by soaking up every flavorful drop. For a more substantial meal, serve the soup alongside a light Greek salad tossed with olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for extra zing. You can also add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or a few kalamata olives on top for a savory burst that plays beautifully with the lemony broth. This soup shines when you make it your own and share it with loved ones, inviting them to taste a little bit of Greece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep it chilled. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more comforting the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but with a caveat: the avgolemono sauce’s creamy texture might slightly change after freezing. For best results, freeze the broth, chicken, and vegetables separately from the lemon-egg mixture. When ready to enjoy, thaw and gently reheat, then stir in freshly made avgolemono sauce to restore its signature creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling once the avgolemono sauce has been added, as this can cause the eggs to curdle. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen the texture if it thickens too much after refrigerating.

FAQs

What is avgolemono sauce?

Avgolemono is a classic Greek lemon-egg sauce made by whisking eggs and lemon juice together and tempering them with hot broth. It gives the soup a creamy, silky texture and a bright, tangy flavor without the use of cream.

Can I use other grains instead of rice?

While rice is traditional, you can experiment with orzo or small pasta shapes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to prevent overcooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure the rice is free from cross-contamination, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add hearty vegetables or legumes for extra protein. The avgolemono sauce will still provide that lovely creamy texture and lemon flavor.

How tart should the soup taste?

The lemon flavor should be bright and refreshing but balanced so it doesn’t overpower the delicate broth and tender chicken. Feel free to adjust the lemon juice amount to your personal taste.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe that turns a simple bowl of soup into a heartwarming experience. Its effortless preparation and wonderfully balanced flavors make it a must-try for anyone who loves comforting food with a bright, elegant twist. I encourage you to make this recipe your own, share it with family and friends, and enjoy the wonderful tradition of Greek cooking right in your own kitchen.

Greek Avgolemono Lemon Chicken Soup (Creamy Traditional Greek Recipe) Recipe