Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 1 cup carrot, diced; 2 cups cauliflower rice (or 1 cup gluten-free orzo); 6 cups chicken broth; ½ cup lemon juice; 1 lb shredded cooked chicken; 1 tsp dried dill; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (reserve some for topping); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup kale, chopped; 3 egg yolks; Lemon wedges and lemon zest to serve

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There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. This traditional Mediterranean dish—known as Avgolemono—offers the perfect balance between comfort food and vibrant flavor. With its creamy texture, zesty lemon flavor, and nourishing ingredients like chicken, egg yolks, and fresh herbs, it’s the kind of soup that feels both soothing and refreshing.

Whether you’re craving something cozy on a cool day or looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this soup delivers. In this article, you’ll learn about its origins, health benefits, variations, and step-by-step guidance for preparing it at home—plus some pro tips and serving ideas.

Looking for inspiration? Try our marry me chicken soup recipe for another heartwarming bowl of goodness.

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What Makes Greek Lemon Chicken Soup So Special?

The Origins of Avgolemono Soup

Avgolemono is more than just a soup—it’s a taste of Greek tradition. The name translates to “egg-lemon,” and its history goes back centuries. Originally used as a sauce to accompany meats and vegetables, the avgolemono technique evolved into the beloved soup we know today. Traditionally served in Greek homes as a staple during cold months or family gatherings, it stands out from other chicken soups because of its tangy profile and signature creamy texture created without any dairy.

Why the Lemon and Egg Combo Is Unique

The magic in Greek Lemon Chicken Soup comes from the combination of lemon juice and tempered egg yolks, which thicken the broth and add a velvety richness. Unlike cream-based soups, this one achieves its silkiness naturally. The eggs are gently whisked with hot broth before being stirred into the pot—no curdling, no heaviness. Just a delicate balance of brightness and depth.

It’s this contrast that keeps people coming back: the richness of the chicken, the herbaceous undertones from dill and parsley, and the citrusy punch of lemon create a complex yet cozy flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits of the Traditional Ingredients

Beyond its incredible taste, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup also checks a lot of boxes when it comes to healthy eating. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it so nutritious:

Ingredient	Health Benefits
Chicken	High-protein, supports muscle recovery
Lemon juice	Rich in Vitamin C, boosts immunity
Egg yolks	Source of healthy fats, Vitamin D & choline
Kale or spinach	Loaded with antioxidants and fiber
Chicken broth	Gut-healing, mineral-rich, and hydrating
Cauliflower rice	Low-carb, gluten-free substitute for grains

This soup is naturally gluten-free and easily customizable for paleo, Whole30, or keto diets. You can swap in orzo if you prefer grains or stick to cauliflower rice for a lower-carb twist.

Discover great ideas like our creamy broccoli cheese soup recipe to explore more nutrient-rich soups.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Key Components and Fresh Substitutions

This recipe uses simple ingredients that pack bold flavor and powerful nutrition. Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this wholesome Greek soup:

Ingredient	Purpose in the Dish	Notes & Substitutions
Olive oil	For sautéing vegetables	Use avocado oil as an alternative
Yellow onion, garlic	Base aromatics for flavor	Shallots or leeks also work well
Celery & carrots	Add sweetness and texture	Keep them diced small for even cooking
Cauliflower rice	Grain-free option	Swap for orzo for a traditional feel
Chicken broth	The savory base	Use homemade or low-sodium store-bought
Lemon juice	The citrus star	Use fresh lemons for best results
Shredded chicken	Adds protein and richness	Use rotisserie or leftover roast chicken
Dried dill & parsley	Classic Mediterranean herbs	Add thyme or oregano if desired
Salt & black pepper	Balances flavors	Adjust to taste
Kale	Adds color, nutrients & bite	Substitute spinach for a softer green
Egg yolks	For the creamy, signature avgolemono base	Essential—skip only if making egg-free

This mix of real, whole foods creates a soup that is both comforting and nourishing. And the best part? It’s adaptable. You can go grain-free, gluten-free, or protein-packed, depending on your needs.

Don’t miss our white chicken chili recipe if you’re craving more high-protein soup dishes with a twist.

Making It Gluten-Free or Paleo-Friendly

The original recipe uses rice or orzo, but this version keeps things paleo by replacing grains with cauliflower rice. Here’s how both versions compare:

Version	Carb Level	Texture	Flavor Impact
Cauliflower rice	Low-carb	Light & tender	Keeps broth thin
Gluten-free orzo	Moderate	Creamy & chewy	Adds richness

Whether you’re following a grain-free lifestyle or just want to cut back on carbs, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute that won’t compromise flavor.

Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Needs

Egg-Free Version: Omit egg yolks. The soup will be thinner, but still flavorful.
Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free, no substitutions needed.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas and use veggie broth.

Check out our cajun potato soup recipe for another cozy, allergy-friendly soup.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup at Home

This soup comes together in less than 40 minutes, making it a great weeknight option.

1. Prep the Aromatic Veggie Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Then add carrots, celery, garlic, and cauliflower rice. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Tip: Keep the heat medium-low to prevent burning and allow the flavors to build slowly.

2. Simmer the Chicken and Broth to Build Flavor

Pour in the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes.

Once the base is aromatic and rich, stir in the shredded chicken and chopped kale, letting the greens wilt gently in the hot broth.

3. Tempering Egg Yolks for the Signature Creamy Finish

Tempering the egg yolks is what turns this into true avgolemono soup. Here’s how to do it:

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks until smooth.
Carefully scoop out 1 cup of hot broth from the soup pot.
While continuously whisking, slowly pour the broth into the yolks to gently heat them.
Pour this egg-lemon mixture back into the soup pot, stirring constantly.

This creates a luxurious texture without any curdling or scrambling.

Remove from heat, adjust seasoning, and let cool slightly. Serve garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

Check out our old fashioned cream of tomato soup for another silky, comforting bowl.

Tips for Perfecting This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

How to Avoid Curdled Eggs

Tempering eggs might sound intimidating, but it’s simple with a little care. The key is to whisk continuously while adding the hot broth to the yolks. If you add it too quickly or stop stirring, the eggs can scramble instead of emulsify. Also, never pour raw egg yolks directly into boiling soup—always temper first.

Pro tip: Let the soup cool for a minute before adding the egg mixture to avoid overheating.

Best Ways to Store or Freeze Leftovers

This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months. Here’s how to do it:

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers; reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
Freezer: Let soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.

Avoid freezing if you’ve already added eggs—they may separate when reheated. Instead, freeze before the egg step, then finish with egg yolks when reheating.

Boosting Flavor with Herbs and Spices

While dill and parsley are traditional, you can elevate flavor even more with:

Fresh thyme or oregano for extra earthiness
Lemon zest to intensify the citrus notes
A dash of turmeric for warmth and color

Don’t miss our creamy-broccoli cheese soup recipe for another herb-packed comfort meal.

Creative Serving Ideas & Meal Pairings

Garnishes to Enhance Freshness

For extra brightness and presentation, top each bowl with:

A lemon wedge
Chopped fresh parsley
A swirl of olive oil or cracked black pepper

These small touches add both flavor and visual appeal.

Best Breads and Side Dishes to Serve With

Pair your soup with simple, Mediterranean-inspired sides:

Side Dish	Why It Works
Crusty sourdough	Soaks up broth beautifully
Greek salad	Adds crunch and complements lemon flavor
Roasted veggies	Rounds out a complete meal
Garlic pita chips	For dipping and crunch

Turning It into a Meal Prep Powerhouse

Batch-cook and store in portioned containers. Keep the tempered egg yolks separate if freezing. Reheat, stir in yolks, garnish, and enjoy.

Check out our marry me chicken soup recipe for another meal-prep worthy soup.

FAQs about Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Can I make Greek lemon chicken soup without eggs?

Yes, but it won’t be true avgolemono. Omit the egg yolks and skip the tempering step. The soup will be thinner, but still flavorful—just add a splash of coconut cream or starch slurry if you want a bit of thickness.

What’s the difference between Avgolemono and regular chicken soup?

Avgolemono stands out due to its lemony brightness and creamy texture from tempered egg yolks. Traditional chicken soups rely on vegetables and noodles; this one uses citrus, eggs, and herbs for its distinctive finish.

How long does this soup last in the fridge or freezer?

Fridge: 3–4 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months
For freezing, do so before adding eggs to maintain a smooth texture when reheated.

Is it safe to reheat egg-based soups like this one?

Yes—gently reheat over low to medium heat while stirring. Avoid boiling, which can cause the eggs to curdle. If reheating after freezing, add fresh tempered yolks for best results.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Again and Again

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup isn’t just another bowl of chicken broth—it’s a comforting yet refreshing, nourishing yet indulgent dish that fits into any season. With its versatile ingredients, quick cook time, and nutrient-rich profile, it’s the kind of soup you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you go the grain-free route with cauliflower rice or keep it classic with gluten-free orzo, the result is always a velvety, lemony, protein-packed delight. And with just one pot and a handful of whole food ingredients, it’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests.

Learn more about old-fashioned cream of tomato soup for a timeless classic to add to your soup rotation.

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