Name: Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1 cup rice; 6 cups chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

why make this recipe

Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, also known as Avgolemono, is a comforting dish that warms the soul. With its vibrant lemon flavor and tender chicken, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a great choice for any home cook.

how to make Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
1 cup rice
6 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Stir in the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
Add the cooked, shredded chicken and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

how to serve Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Serve Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup hot. You can ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This soup pairs well with warm bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

how to store Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

To store any leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.

tips to make Classic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
If you want to add more veggies, consider adding spinach or peas.

variation

You can easily customize this soup. For a richer flavor, add a dollop of cream or yogurt just before serving. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I use instead of rice?
Quinoa or orzo pasta can be good substitutes for rice in this soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice or substitutes like quinoa, this soup can be gluten-free.