My friends, let me tell you something: few soups can warm your soul and brighten your mood at the same time like a beautiful bowl of Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
This Mediterranean classic—often known as Avgolemono—has everything I love in comfort food: tender shredded chicken, delicate rice (or orzo), fresh herbs, and that signature silky lemon-egg broth that feels luxurious yet light.
The first time I made this soup, it was during a cold winter evening when I wanted something comforting but not heavy. One spoonful of that creamy, citrus-kissed broth and I was hooked. It’s cozy without being rich. Bright without being sharp. Simple yet elegant.
If you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing, and flavor-packed soup, this Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is about to become your new favorite.
Why This Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Is Irresistible
1. Creamy Without Cream
The silky texture comes from eggs and lemon—not heavy cream.
2. Bright & Comforting
The fresh lemon juice lifts the entire dish.
3. Nourishing & Protein-Packed
Lean chicken makes it satisfying and wholesome.
4. Elegant Yet Easy
Simple ingredients, impressive results.
5. Perfect for Any Season
Cozy in winter, refreshing in spring.
Ingredients for Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked white rice or orzo
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Chef André’s Smart Substitutions
- Use orzo instead of rice for a more traditional Greek texture.
- Swap dill for fresh parsley if preferred.
- Add a pinch of turmeric for subtle color and warmth.
- Use brown rice (cook separately first) for extra fiber.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Step 1 – Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 2 – Simmer the Rice
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Add rice (or orzo), reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender.
Step 3 – Add Chicken
Stir in shredded chicken and allow it to warm through for 3–4 minutes.
Step 4 – Prepare the Avgolemono (Egg-Lemon Mixture)
In a bowl, whisk together eggs and lemon juice until smooth.
Slowly ladle about 1 cup of hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This tempers the eggs and prevents curdling.
Step 5 – Finish the Soup
Reduce heat to low.
Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot while stirring gently.
Do NOT boil after adding eggs—just warm gently until slightly thickened.
Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh dill.
Your Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is ready.
Creative Variations
Extra Lemon Lover’s Version
Add lemon zest for more citrus aroma.
Low-Carb Version
Skip rice and add extra chicken and vegetables.
Herb-Forward Version
Add fresh thyme or oregano for deeper Mediterranean flavor.
Creamier Texture
Use one extra egg yolk for a richer broth.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Avgolemono
- Always temper the eggs slowly to avoid scrambling.
- Keep the heat low after adding the egg mixture.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice—bottled won’t give the same brightness.
- Let the soup sit 5 minutes before serving to thicken naturally.
What to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Warm pita bread
- Greek salad with feta
- Crusty artisan bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Light white wine
This soup makes a beautiful starter or a light main course.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Not ideal due to egg-based broth texture changes.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat. Never boil, or the eggs may separate.
FAQ – Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Why did my soup curdle?
The eggs likely weren’t tempered properly or the soup was reheated too aggressively.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but reheat gently and avoid boiling.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—it’s a great shortcut.
Can I make it dairy-free?
It already is! The creaminess comes from eggs.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
(Nutrition varies depending on ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts from Chef André
This Cozy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. It can be bright, nourishing, and deeply satisfying all at once.
If you try it, let me know—did you go extra lemony? Did you add orzo? I love hearing your kitchen stories.
And always remember to handle poultry safely. For official food safety guidance, visit the USDA Food Safety page here:
👉 https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety
Cook with heart. Cook with balance. And never underestimate the power of lemon and love in a simple bowl of soup.
— Chef André 🍋🍲