Description
Avgolemono Soup is a traditional Greek lemon chicken soup known for its creamy texture and bright, tangy flavor. This comforting soup combines tender chicken, savory broth, rice or orzo, and a luscious egg-lemon mixture, creating a deliciously smooth and hearty dish perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked white rice or orzo pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
Avgolemono Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the base: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the rice or orzo and cook according to package instructions until tender, usually about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add chicken and reduce heat: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and reduce the heat to low to keep the soup warm without boiling.
- Prepare the avgolemono mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Slowly add the fresh lemon juice while continuing to whisk.
- Temper the eggs: Gradually ladle about 1 cup of the hot broth into the egg and lemon mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Incorporate mixture into soup: Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the soup pot, stirring gently. Continue cooking over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the soup thickens and becomes creamy without boiling.
- Season and garnish: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh dill or parsley and optional lemon zest just before serving to enhance the fresh flavors.
Notes
- Tempering the eggs carefully is crucial to prevent scrambling and achieve the creamy texture characteristic of avgolemono soup.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut and adds great flavor.
- Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
- For a gluten-free option, use rice instead of orzo pasta.
