Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup (Avgolemono): The Ultimate Greek Comfort Soup

Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup, traditionally known as Avgolemono, is one of Greece’s most beloved comfort dishes. Creamy without cream, bright without overpowering acidity, and deeply nourishing, this soup is a masterclass in balance and simplicity. Made with chicken broth, tender rice, fresh lemon juice, and eggs, Avgolemono delivers a silky texture and unmistakable Mediterranean flavor.

Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a cozy bowl of soup, or exploring classic Greek cuisine, Avgolemono is a timeless recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.

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What Is Avgolemono Soup?

Avgolemono (αυγολέμονο) translates directly to “egg-lemon”, which perfectly describes the heart of the dish. The soup is thickened by tempering eggs with hot broth and lemon juice, creating a naturally creamy consistency without dairy or flour.

This technique is used throughout Greek cooking, but its most famous application is in Chicken Avgolemono Soup.

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Why Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup Is So Popular

Avgolemono stands out because it is:

• Naturally creamy without heavy ingredients
• Bright and refreshing from fresh lemon juice
• Comforting and filling
• High in protein
• Gluten-free (with rice)
• Easy to digest

It’s often served to those recovering from illness, but its flavor is elegant enough for special occasions.

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Flavor Profile of Avgolemono Soup

A perfect bowl of Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup should be:

• Savory from chicken broth
• Bright from fresh lemon
• Silky from tempered eggs
• Hearty from rice and chicken
• Balanced with gentle seasoning

The lemon should enhance—not overpower—the broth.

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Ingredients for Authentic Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
• ½ cup short-grain rice (or orzo)
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh dill or parsley
• Lemon slices
• Cracked black pepper

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Choosing the Right Rice

Short-grain rice is traditional and releases starches that help thicken the soup naturally. Arborio rice works well, but medium-grain rice is also acceptable. Avoid long-grain rice, which remains too separate and doesn’t contribute to the creamy texture.

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Why Fresh Lemon Juice Matters

Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness essential to Avgolemono. Freshly squeezed lemon provides:

• Clean acidity
• Natural fragrance
• Balanced tang

Always add lemon gradually and taste as you go.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook briefly.

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Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in rice and reduce heat. Simmer until rice is tender, about 15–18 minutes.

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Step 3: Add the Chicken

Stir in shredded chicken and cook until warmed through.

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Step 4: Prepare the Avgolemono Mixture

In a bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Slowly whisk in lemon juice.

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Step 5: Temper the Eggs

Gradually ladle hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling.

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Step 6: Finish the Soup

Remove soup from heat. Slowly stir the tempered egg mixture back into the pot. Do not boil.

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Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with herbs and serve warm.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Boiling after adding eggs: This causes curdling
Adding lemon too early: Acid can affect egg texture
Skipping tempering: Essential for smoothness
Overcooking rice: Makes soup overly thick

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Avgolemono Variations

Orzo Avgolemono

Substitute rice with orzo pasta for a classic variation.

Low-Carb Version

Use cauliflower rice and reduce broth slightly.

Extra Lemon

Increase lemon juice for a sharper, more tangy soup.

Vegetarian Avgolemono

Use vegetable broth and omit chicken.

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When to Serve Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup

Avgolemono is perfect for:

• Cold winter evenings
• Light spring dinners
• Holiday meals
• Meal prep lunches
• Recovery meals

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or Greek salad.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Warm gently over low heat. Never boil.

Freezing

Not recommended due to egg-based texture.

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Health Benefits of Avgolemono Soup

• High-quality protein from eggs and chicken
• Vitamin C from lemon
• Easy to digest
• Naturally dairy-free
• Comforting and hydrating

This soup is both nourishing and restorative.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly.

Q2: Why did my soup curdle?
The soup was too hot when eggs were added or it was boiled afterward.

Q3: Can I make it thicker?
Add more rice or reduce broth slightly.

Q4: Is Avgolemono gluten-free?
Yes, when made with rice.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Proper egg tempering
• Balanced lemon flavor
• Traditional ingredients
• Foolproof technique
• Authentic Greek method

This approach delivers consistently smooth, creamy results.

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Conclusion

Chicken & Lemon Rice Soup (Avgolemono) is the embodiment of comfort and elegance. With its velvety texture, bright citrus flavor, and nourishing ingredients, it’s a dish that feels both soothing and refined. Once you master this classic Greek soup, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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