When it comes to comfort food, Greek lemon chicken soup, known as Avgolemono, is a classic that warms both the heart and soul. My dad used to make this when I was younger and it is the most comforting Greek dish. Avgolemono brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious and satisfying.
I made sure to include this recipe in my NOURISH me program!
Essential Ingredients
Creating the authentic flavors of Greek lemon chicken soup relies on gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you'll need:
Chicken: Use 450g of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender mouthfeel.
Lemon: Freshly squeezed juice from 2 lemons is necessary for the signature zesty flavor.
Eggs: Three large eggs enrich the broth and provide a creamy texture, a key feature of Avgolemono.
Rice: One cup (200g) of short-grain rice makes the soup hearty and filling.
Broth: 4 cups (1 liter) of chicken broth enhances the soup’s savory base.
Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley adds a burst of freshness, elevating the overall flavor.
With these ingredients, you can craft a comforting bowl of Avgolemono that evokes the essence of Greek cooking.
The Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before cooking, ensure you have the following:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
1 cup (200g) rice (preferably short grain)
3 large eggs
Juice from 2 lemons
Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, combine the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and allow it to cool. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
Add 1 cup of rice to the pot and let it cook in the broth for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Step 4: Create the Avgolemono Sauce
While the rice cooks, prepare the Avgolemono sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until well mixed.
To temper the eggs and prevent scrambling when adding them to the hot soup, gradually mix in about 1 cup of the hot broth into the egg mixture. This step is crucial for a smooth texture.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the tempered egg-lemon mixture. Stir gently until combined. Heat the soup on low for a few more minutes, carefully avoiding a boil to keep the sauce creamy.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your Avgolemono and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
Perfect Pairings
Avgolemono shines not only as a standalone dish but also pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh Greek salad, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables. This combination not only adds nutritional value but also enhances the dining experience, bringing a taste of Greece to your table.
Tips for Variation
While sticking to tradition is important, creativity can lead to exciting new tastes. Here are a few variations to try:
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, peas, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Different Proteins: Bone-in chicken can add richer flavor, or you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a unique twist.
Spice it Up: For a kick, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Joanna Tsintaris, is the Founder of Nourish Dietitian —an online health and nutrition clinic offering personalized 1:1 dietetic advice. She is a registered Dietitian in the UK and Biomedical Science graduate with first class MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics. Specializing in weight loss and Type 2 Diabetes with an interest in sports nutrition, Joanna empowers clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes, addressing conditions like pre-diabetes, PCOS, and more. With a holistic approach, she fosters a healthier relationship with food, challenges weight stigma, and rejects diet culture. Her clinical expertise, coupled with a commitment to evidence-based practice, ensures clients receive compassionate and person-centered care. Beyond her professional pursuits, Joanna, embodies the principles of holistic well-being in her own life, whether practicing yoga, enjoying brunch, or savoring moments with coffee in hand.
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