Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting Mediterranean classic that I turn to again and again. This soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty lemon flavor, enhanced by the richness of eggs. It’s creamy without the cream, making it a perfect choice for any season. Whether you are feeling under the weather or just in need of a warm hug in a bowl, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup delivers satisfaction every time.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
This Greek chicken soup recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Comforting and warm, perfect for chilly days.
- Rich in protein, thanks to chicken and eggs.
- Low in fat, making it a healthy option without sacrificing flavor.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Versatile; can be made with rice or orzo.
- Bright lemon flavor lifts your spirits.
This dish is a traditional Greek lemon soup that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Gather these items:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2/3 cup uncooked white rice (or orzo)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Step 2: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add rice, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Step 3: Stir in the shredded chicken and heat through.
- Step 4: In a bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Whisk in lemon juice. Slowly whisk in 1–2 ladles of hot broth to temper the eggs.
- Step 5: Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture into the soup while stirring constantly. Heat gently on low—do not boil—until slightly thickened.
- Step 6: Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Keep these in mind:
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option.
- Always temper the eggs with hot broth before adding them to the soup to prevent curdling.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition.
This recipe is prepared using the stovetop method, making it quick and convenient.
Best Ways to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
This avgolemono soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance its flavor. For a delightful twist, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
What’s the secret to perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors—using fresh lemon juice and properly tempering the eggs are crucial steps. The result is a creamy lemon chicken soup with egg that is both comforting and refreshing.
Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just be aware that the soup may thicken in the fridge, so you might need to add a little broth when reheating.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Avoid boiling the soup after adding the egg-lemon mixture, as this can cause the eggs to curdle. Also, ensure that your broth is hot enough when tempering the eggs to achieve a silky texture.
Variations of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup You Can Try
There are several delightful variations to consider:
- For a healthy Greek chicken soup, add leafy greens like spinach or kale.
- Substitute rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Add chickpeas for extra protein and a different texture.
These variations can cater to various dietary preferences while still keeping the essence of this classic soup.

For more about my cooking journey, visit my About Me page. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. You can also check out my Privacy Policy for more information.
For a deeper understanding of the health benefits of chicken soup, you can read this article on Healthline.
Lastly, if you’re interested in the history of avgolemono, you can find more details on The Spruce Eats.
PrintComforting Greek Lemon Chicken Soup You’ll Love
Comforting Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) You’ll Crave Again and Again
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2/3 cup uncooked white rice (or orzo)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add rice, reduce heat, and simmer 15–18 minutes until tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heat through.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Whisk in lemon juice. Slowly whisk in 1–2 ladles of hot broth to temper the eggs.
- Slowly pour egg-lemon mixture into the soup while stirring constantly. Heat gently on low—do not boil—until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg












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