Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo (Avgolemono)

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo, also known as Avgolemono, is a classic Mediterranean comfort soup celebrated for its silky texture, bright lemon flavor, and nourishing ingredients. This traditional Greek dish combines tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a rich yet light broth thickened naturally with eggs and fresh lemon juice. The result is a creamy soup without cream—smooth, warming, and deeply satisfying.

Avgolemono has been enjoyed in Greek households for generations, often served during cooler months or when someone needs a comforting, healing meal. Its balance of protein, citrus, and comforting broth makes it both refreshing and soothing, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comforting without being heavy. The lemon adds a refreshing brightness, while the egg-thickened broth feels luxurious and nourishing. It’s one of those soups that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect when you’re craving something warm, wholesome, and full of flavor.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s unique, wholesome, and packed with Mediterranean flavor. If you enjoy soups that are creamy yet light and full of depth, Avgolemono is a wonderful change from traditional cream-based soups. It’s also naturally gluten-light and rich in protein.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ¾ cup orzo pasta
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Avgolemono Mixture

• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Base
Sauté vegetables, add broth, and cook chicken.

Cook Orzo
Simmer orzo until tender.

Temper Eggs and Finish Soup
Whisk eggs with lemon and slowly add hot broth.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
Step 3: Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Add chicken and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked through.
Step 6: Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
Step 7: Add orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender.
Step 8: In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until smooth.
Step 9: Slowly ladle hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking.
Step 10: Reduce heat and gently stir egg mixture back into soup.
Step 11: Cook gently for 2–3 minutes without boiling.
Step 12: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.

How to Serve

Serve Avgolemono hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley and a lemon wedge. Pair with crusty bread, pita, or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Do not boil soup after adding eggs
• Whisk constantly while tempering eggs
• Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
• Add extra broth if soup thickens too much

Variations

Rice Avgolemono
Replace orzo with short-grain rice.

Extra Lemon Avgolemono
Add more lemon juice for brighter flavor.

Vegetable Avgolemono
Skip chicken and add more vegetables.

Low-Carb Avgolemono
Omit orzo and add zucchini noodles.

Herb-Forward Version
Add extra dill or fresh thyme.

Freezing and Storage

Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing
Freezing is not recommended due to egg-based broth.

Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat without boiling.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Cutting board and knife

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo (Avgolemono) is a beautifully balanced, comforting dish that showcases the elegance of simple Mediterranean cooking. Creamy without cream, bright yet soothing, and deeply nourishing, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a bowl of pure comfort. Once you try it, Avgolemono is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.