This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is an absolute gem that brings warmth and brightness to your bowl with every spoonful. Combining tender shredded chicken, al dente orzo, and the unmistakable zing of fresh lemon juice, this soup offers a delightful harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and invigorating. It’s a classic favorite that’s incredibly simple to make but special enough to impress family and friends at any meal. If you love dishes that taste like a hug in a bowl, you’re going to adore this recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is essential for the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and freshness in this soup. Each element plays a unique role, from the hearty shredded chicken to the fragrant dill and bright lemon juice, creating layers of taste that dance on your palate.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that infuses the soup with savory depth.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken: Adds protein and tender texture, making the soup satisfying.
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a delicate bite.
- 3 eggs: Whisked to create the creamy, silky consistency the soup is known for.
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: A fresh herb that brightens the soup with its unique, slightly tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: Gives the soup its signature refreshing and zesty taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor note.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Broth to a Simmer
Start by placing 6 cups of chicken broth in a large pot over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer – this will be the flavorful foundation for your soup. Simmering at a steady temperature helps meld the flavors beautifully without boiling away the nuances.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Add 1/2 cup of orzo pasta directly to the simmering broth. Let it cook until al dente, typically according to package instructions. Orzo adds a lovely, comforting texture that makes each spoonful more satisfying and ensures the soup feels substantial without being heavy.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Lemon Juice Together
In a separate bowl, combine 3 eggs and 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice. Whisk them well until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This mixture is the magical base that transforms the broth into a silky, creamy soup with that hallmark bright tang from the lemon.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs with Hot Broth
Slowly add 1 cup of the hot broth to your egg-lemon mixture while whisking continuously. This step, called tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling and gently brings them up to temperature, so they blend smoothly into the soup.
Step 5: Combine the Egg Mixture with the Broth
Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the simmering broth and orzo, stirring constantly. This careful technique ensures the soup thickens just right, creating that signature creamy consistency without any lumps.
Step 6: Add the Shredded Chicken and Simmer
Next, stir in 1 cup of cooked shredded chicken to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This warms the chicken through and lets the flavors marry, making every spoonful rich and satisfying.
Step 7: Stir in Fresh Dill and Season
Turn off the heat and mix in 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to your liking to enhance the soup’s vibrant flavors. The dill adds a wonderful herbal brightness that balances the lemon’s tartness beautifully.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Greek lemon chicken soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting, tangy, and fresh taste of this timeless classic.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra freshly chopped dill or a twist of lemon zest on top is all you need to elevate this soup visually and flavor-wise. Feel free to add a drizzle of good olive oil for a silky finish or a few croutons for a crunchy contrast.
Side Dishes
This soup is wonderful on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad or warm pita bread. A small side of feta cheese or olives also complements the lemony brightness and rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in individual ramekins topped with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Another idea is to drizzle some herb-infused olive oil on top before serving to add aromatic flair and richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Greek lemon chicken soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
While this soup can be frozen, note that the orzo may soften further. For best texture, consider freezing the broth and chicken separately, then adding fresh orzo when reheating. This way, you maintain that perfect bite.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling as it can cause the egg-lemon mixture to curdle. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice after reheating can revive the brightness if needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or tiny shells work well, but keep in mind cooking times and texture to maintain the light feel of the soup.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You might want to add extra herbs or vegetables to enhance the flavor.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
Temper the eggs by slowly whisking hot broth into them before adding back into the pot. Stir constantly during this step and keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for that bright, vibrant flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just be mindful of taste and adjust the amount accordingly.
What makes this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup special compared to other chicken soups?
It’s the luscious lemon-egg mixture called avgolemono that sets this soup apart, creating a delicate creaminess without dairy and a refreshing citrusy twist that’s uniquely Greek.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soup that feels both comforting and invigorating, this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe is a must-try. Its simple ingredients come together to create something truly special—a bowl full of sunshine, hope, and home. So go ahead and make a pot today; I promise it’ll become one of your cherished go-to recipes for cozy days and happy gatherings.
Print
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and tangy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup featuring tender shredded chicken, orzo pasta, fresh dill, and a bright lemony egg mixture that creates a creamy texture without any cream. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
Egg-Lemon Mixture
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Simmer broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat, preparing the base for the soup.
- Cook orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Whisk eggs and lemon: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and fresh lemon juice until well combined to create the egg-lemon mixture.
- Temper eggs: Slowly pour 1 cup of hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking constantly to gently raise the temperature and prevent curdling.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the broth and orzo while stirring continuously to gently thicken the soup.
- Add chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Season: Stir in fresh chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste for enhanced flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Notes
- Tempering the eggs is crucial to avoid scrambling and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- You can substitute orzo with rice or small pasta shapes if preferred.
- Adjust lemon juice according to your taste preference for tanginess.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control of saltiness.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light Greek salad.
