Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken: 5 Simple Steps to Savor

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Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken is a vibrant, non-creamy soup that brings a delightful balance of rich chicken stock and refreshing lemon flavors. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With tender chicken and a silky egg-lemon mixture, it offers a unique twist on traditional chicken soup. As you cook, the aroma of sautéed garlic and onion fills your kitchen, making this soup an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

This Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken soup is an easy Greek lemon chicken dish that is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of chicken stock and fresh lemon juice.
A healthy option with only 250 calories per serving.
Gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile: you can add orzo, rice, or vegetables as desired.
Perfect for meal prep; it can be made ahead and reheated easily.

Ingredients for Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

Gather these items:

2 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
6 cups chicken stock (or broth)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup orzo pasta (optional, can be substituted with rice)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
1 bay leaf (optional, for extra flavor)
2 cups water (if needed to adjust soup consistency)

How to Make Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove from the pot and set aside to cool. Shred the chicken once cooled.
Step 2: In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Add the chicken stock and additional water as needed. Bring to a simmer, then add orzo pasta (if using) and cook for 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Whisk eggs and lemon juice together in a bowl. Slowly ladle 1 cup of hot broth into the egg mixture to temper the eggs.
Step 4: Slowly add the egg-lemon mixture back into the soup, whisking constantly. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add shredded chicken back into the soup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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Pro Tips for the Best Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This soup is perfect for a light meal that’s satisfying yet not heavy.
Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed.
Fresh parsley adds a nice garnish.
For a richer flavor, add a bay leaf while simmering the broth.
Cooking Avgolemono at home allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.

Best Ways to Serve Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serve alongside a fresh Greek salad for a refreshing contrast. Greek salad is a great option!
Top with croutons for added texture and crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding water to adjust the consistency if necessary. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken?

The secret lies in tempering the eggs with hot broth before adding them to the soup. This prevents the eggs from curdling, creating a silky texture.

Can I make Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors will deepen!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken?

Make sure not to boil the soup vigorously after adding the egg-lemon mixture, as this can cause the eggs to scramble. Stir gently and keep it on low heat.

Variations of Avgolemono Greek Lemon Chicken You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Add vegetables such as carrots or spinach for extra nutrition.
Substitute the chicken with turkey for a lighter option.
Try using quinoa instead of orzo for a gluten-free alternative.

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For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Creamy Pumpkin Soup.