I still remember the first time I made Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. It filled the house with a delicious aroma, and that first spoonful left me hooked! The combination of savory chicken broth with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon makes it a comforting yet refreshing dish.
It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm, cozy hug. What I love most, though, is how simple it is to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this soup is a real winner. Once you try it, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your home too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
1. Easy to Prepare
This recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready in no time. No technical skills are needed here!
2. Packed with Flavor
The lemon shines in this soup, balancing the hearty chicken and rice with a fresh, tangy kick. The addition of egg yolks creates a creamy texture without the need for cream.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re battling a cold, looking for a hearty dinner, or hosting guests, this soup fits every occasion. Serve it with warm pita bread for an extra touch.
4. Easily Customizable
You can adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs or preferences. Make it dairy-free, load it with veggies, or substitute rice with quinoa for an extra twist.
5. Family-Friendly
Even picky eaters will love the rich flavors and creamy texture of this soup. It’s a dish the whole family can enjoy.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this delightful soup:
- Chicken broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Shredded carrots
- Finely chopped onion
- Finely chopped celery
- Chicken soup base
- Ground white pepper
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Egg yolks
- Cooked white rice
- Diced cooked chicken
- Lemon slices (optional garnish)
Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some variations to explore:
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter with olive oil to keep it dairy-free.
- Sugar-Free: The recipe is already sugar-free, making it perfect for most diets!
- Additional Flavor: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an earthy touch.
- Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetable stock and skip the chicken for a meatless version.
Equipment You Need
- Large pot – For cooking the soup.
- Mixing bowl – To whisk the egg yolks.
- Ladle – For stirring and serving.
- Whisk – To mix eggs and hot soup smoothly.
- Sharp knife – To finely chop vegetables.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Making this soup is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a satisfying meal! 😊
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Chop the veggies finely, zest the lemons if needed, and have your cooked chicken and rice ready. It’s much smoother when everything is at hand before you begin.
Cook the Vegetables
Set a large pot over medium heat and combine chicken broth, lemon juice, carrots, onion, celery, chicken soup base, and white pepper. Bring it all to a boil before lowering the heat to a simmer. 🥕 Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Thicken the Soup
Make a simple roux by blending butter and flour in a small bowl. Gradually stir it into your pot of soup, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. This will thicken the soup as it simmers for another 8-10 minutes.
Add the Egg Yolks
Whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl until they’re frothy and pale. Slowly ladle a small stream of hot soup into the eggs while whisking constantly. This tempers the egg yolks and prevents curdling! 🥚
Combine and Serve
Pour the egg mixture back into the soup pot, stirring as you go. Add in the cooked rice and chicken, letting everything warm together for a few minutes. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with thin lemon slices for that final touch. 🍋
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Tempering: Adding hot soup to the eggs gradually is crucial. It keeps the yolks from scrambling and ensures the soup stays creamy.
- Season to Taste: The flavor varies depending on your chicken broth, so taste before adding extra chicken base or salt.
- Prep Ahead: Chop veggies and cook the chicken and rice beforehand to save time on busy days.
- Choose Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for a vibrant, tangy flavor. Bottled juice won’t taste the same.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Presentation is everything! Serve this soup in deep bowls for a cozy vibe. Garnish with thin lemon slices, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a dash of black pepper. Pair it with warm pita bread, crusty rolls, or a fresh green salad. This soup works beautifully as an appetizer or the star of the meal.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not just delicious but also fairly nutritious. Here’s what you can expect (per serving):
- Calories: 124
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 7g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to save some time, you can prepare this soup in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the soup without the rice, as it can get mushy. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop and add freshly cooked rice. This method keeps the texture and flavors intact!
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is everything you want in comfort food. A dish with heart, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table. Give it a try, and enjoy every spoonful! 🥄