The gentle bubbling of broth on the stove, the bright smell of fresh lemon zest, the way steam curls up from a warm bowl. Greek lemon chicken soup wraps you in comfort like a soft blanket on a chilly evening. It’s one of those healing bowls that makes everything feel right again.
This traditional avgolemono brings together tender chicken, silky eggs, and that perfect lemony brightness in one pot. Rice soaks up all those wonderful flavors while fresh dill adds just the right herbal note. It’s like having a Greek grandmother’s kitchen wisdom, but ready in just 30 minutes. Full details in the blog!
I learned this recipe from watching my own mother whisk eggs with such care, never letting them curdle in the hot broth. Those Sunday afternoons taught me that patience creates the creamiest, most soul-warming soup. I’ve tested every step to make sure yours turns out perfect. You’ll love how it fills your home with pure comfort.
PrintGreek Lemon Chicken Soup: Cozy Healing Recipe
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup featuring tender chicken and fresh lemon in a creamy egg-lemon broth. This Easy Avgolemono Soup is perfect for any season and offers cozy flavors that warm the soul. Try this Cozy Avgolemono Soup for a healing and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- 6 tablespoons chicken soup base
- ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ¼ cup margarine
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 8 egg yolks
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken
- 16 lemon slices
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, carrots, onion, celery, chicken soup base, and white pepper, then bring to a boil over high heat.
- Lower the heat and simmer the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- In a small bowl, blend the margarine and flour until smooth, then gradually stir this into the simmering soup and cook while stirring frequently for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl until creamy, slowly whisk in a ladle of hot soup to temper the eggs, then pour the egg mixture back into the pot while stirring gently, heating the soup without boiling.
- Add the cooked rice and chicken to the pot and warm through for a few minutes.
- Serve by ladling soup into bowls, garnishing each with a lemon slice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Why This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Will Become Your Go-To Comfort Bowl
There’s something magical about the way lemon transforms ordinary chicken broth into liquid sunshine. This Greek lemon chicken soup carries generations of kitchen wisdom in every spoonfulthe kind of recipe grandmothers passed down with careful whispers about tempering eggs just right.
What makes this soup special is how it balances creamy richness with bright, clean flavors. The egg yolks create that silky texture we crave on cold days, while fresh lemon juice keeps everything light and healing. It’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down.
- Ready in 40 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknight dinners
- One pot wonder: Less cleanup, more time to enjoy
- Naturally gluten-free: Rice instead of pasta makes it gentle on sensitive stomachs
Understanding Your Ingredients Like a Greek Grandmother
Each ingredient in this healing Greek lemon egg soup recipe plays its part in creating that perfect bowl. The chicken soup base adds depth that plain broth can’t match, while those eight egg yolks create the creamy, custard-like texture that makes avgolemono so distinctive.

The secret to success: Your margarine and flour mixture acts as insurance against curdling when you add those precious egg yolks. Don’t skip this stepit’s what keeps your soup silky smooth instead of scrambled.
| Ingredient | Why It Matters | Swap Options |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lemon juice | Provides bright, clean acidity | Use bottled if needed, but fresh tastes brighter |
| 8 egg yolks | Creates signature creamy texture | Reduce to 6 for lighter version |
| White pepper | Adds warmth without specks | Black pepper works too |
| Cooked white rice | Makes soup hearty and filling | Brown rice or orzo pasta |
Step-by-Step: Building Layers of Comfort
The beauty of this one pot avgolemono chicken soup lies in how each step builds on the last. First, you’re creating a flavorful base where those vegetables soften and release their sweetness into the broth. The carrots, onion, and celery form the foundation of comfort.
Then comes the thickening stagewhisking that margarine and flour mixture into the simmering soup. This step might feel fussy, but it’s what transforms thin broth into something substantial. Stir frequently and watch it come together.
- Tempering the eggs: Add hot soup slowly to beaten yolks while whisking constantly
- Keep it gentle: Never let the soup boil once eggs are added
- Final additions: Rice and chicken go in last, just to warm through
Troubleshooting: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Eggs curdled despite your best efforts? Don’t panic. Strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps, then continue with the recipe. It’ll still taste wonderful, just not quite as silky smooth.
If your soup seems too thin after adding the flour mixture, let it simmer a bit longer. The flour needs time to work its magic. Too thick? Thin it out with a little extra chicken broth, added gradually until you reach the perfect consistency.
Pro Tip: Room temperature egg yolks temper more easily than cold ones straight from the fridge. Take them out about 30 minutes before cooking if you remember.
Making It Your Own: Simple Tweaks for Different Tastes
This traditional Greek lemon soup with dill welcomes gentle variations. Some families add fresh dill at the end for an herbal note, while others prefer extra lemon slices for more citrus punch. Trust your taste buds and adjust as you go.
For heartier appetites, double the chicken or rice. For lighter meals, use just the broth, vegetables, and eggs. The beauty of family recipes is how they adapt to what you need on any given day.
| Variation | What to Change | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Lemony | Add 2-3 more tablespoons lemon juice | When you need maximum brightness |
| Heartier Version | Double the rice and chicken | Growing families or meal prep |
| Lighter Style | Use 6 egg yolks instead of 8 | When you want comfort without heaviness |
Serving and Storing Your Cozy Creation
Serve this cozy avgolemono soup winter comfort in warmed bowls with those beautiful lemon slices floating on top. The visual alone promises warmth and healing. Crusty bread alongside makes it a complete meal that satisfies both body and soul.
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, though the texture may thicken as it cools. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Never microwave at full powerit can scramble those precious eggs.
Storage wisdom: The soup tastes even better the next day as all those flavors meld together. It’s like the difference between a new friendship and an old, comfortable oneboth lovely, but the aged version has extra depth.
Expert Says
In GREEK LEMON CHICKEN SOUP, the combination of citrus and chicken not only enhances flavor but also boosts immunity. The vitamin C from the lemon aids in collagen production, essential for healthy skin, while lean chicken provides protein for muscle repair. This soup is a comforting way to nourish your body.
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The Journey to My Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup felt elusive at firstit took countless attempts to balance the tangy lemon with the rich, comforting broth. I still remember the time I oversalted it, thinking it would enhance the flavors! Now, after many lessons learned, I finally have a recipe that warms my heart and soul, just like my mother’s did.
FAQs ( Greek Lemon Chicken Soup )
What is Greek lemon soup?
This dish is a traditional Greek soup, often featuring chicken, lemon juice, and egg, resulting in a creamy and tangy flavor. It’s a hearty meal that provides warmth and comfort, especially during colder months.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and enhance flavor. Just shred the chicken and add it during the final stages of cooking to warm it through without overcooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or rice instead of traditional noodles. Always check labels on other ingredients like broth or seasonings to ensure they do not contain gluten.
What can I serve with Greek lemon soup?
This meal pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or warm freshly baked bread. For added flavor, consider serving it with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
How long does it take to make?
This recipe is quick and easy, typically taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This Greek lemon chicken soup comes together in just 40 minutes, but the comfort it brings lasts for hours. You’ll love how the creamy broth coats your spoon and how that bright lemon aroma fills your kitchen like sunshine on a cloudy day. Each bowl delivers the healing warmth that makes everything feel right again.
For richer flavor, try adding an extra squeeze of fresh lemon just before servinga little trick passed down through generations of Greek kitchens. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days, gently reheating on low heat with a splash of broth. The soup actually tastes even more wonderful the next day as all those lovely flavors meld together.
I’d love to hear how this recipe finds its way into your family’s heart. Did your grandmother make something similar on chilly evenings? Share a photo of your beautiful bowlthere’s something special about seeing how this timeless comfort travels from kitchen to kitchen, bringing warmth wherever it lands.





