This Avgolemono Soup is a classic Greek dish known for its silky texture and bright lemon flavor. Made with tender chicken, rice, and a luxurious egg-lemon sauce, it transforms humble ingredients into a comforting, fragrant bowl of soup ready in just over 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It delivers a rich, velvety broth without any cream.
• Ready quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Naturally warming, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.
• Customizable with rice or orzo.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 to 1 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1/2 to 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 to 1 cup finely chopped green onions
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup rice, rinsed and soaked 15 minutes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cooked boneless chicken breast pieces, shredded (6 to 8 oz)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 large eggs
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, and green onions. Sauté briefly, then stir in the garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Raise heat to high.
3. When the broth reaches a rolling boil, add the rice along with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and eggs. While whisking continuously, slowly ladle in 2 scoops of hot broth from the pot to temper the eggs.
5. Pour the tempered egg-lemon mixture into the soup. Stir gently, then remove the pot from heat immediately to prevent curdling.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the rice with 1 cup of orzo; cook for about 7 minutes or until tender.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach at the end for extra greens.
• Use leftover chicken thighs for a richer chicken flavor.
• Add a pinch of turmeric for a warm color and subtle earthiness.
• Use a mix of vegetable and chicken broth for a lighter base.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Since this soup contains no dairy, it can also be frozen. Leave room in containers for expansion during freezing.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens or begins to separate.

FAQs

How do I keep the egg mixture from curdling?

Temper the egg-lemon mixture slowly with hot broth and remove the soup from heat as soon as it’s added.

Can I make Avgolemono Soup ahead of time?

Yes, but add the egg-lemon mixture shortly before serving for the best texture.

Can I use orzo instead of rice?

Yes. Orzo cooks faster—about 7 minutes.

Why did my soup separate?

This usually happens if the soup gets too hot after adding the egg mixture. Remove from heat immediately.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Thighs offer a richer flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you make it with rice and check that your broth is gluten-free.

Can I adjust the lemon flavor?

You can increase or decrease the lemon juice to taste.

Can I make this soup thicker?

Add slightly more rice or let the soup simmer a few minutes longer before adding the egg-lemon mixture.

Can I use vegetable broth?

Yes, though the flavor will be lighter. Keep the chicken in for depth unless making a variation.

What can I serve with Avgolemono Soup?

Greek salad, warm crusty bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Avgolemono Soup is a timeless Greek classic that turns simple ingredients into something deeply comforting and luxurious. With its bright citrus notes, tender chicken, and velvety broth, this dish is ideal for busy evenings or whenever you crave a warm, nourishing meal. Enjoy it as a complete dinner or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.

Print