Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. This humble yet incredibly flavorful soup is an absolute staple in Greek households, combining bright citrus notes with tender chicken and comforting rice. The bright lemon juice lifts the rich, savory broth and silky egg yolks, making it a vibrant, soul-soothing meal that you’ll want to return to again and again. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup perfectly balances freshness and comfort, proving simple ingredients can create magic in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Greek Lemon Chicken Soup means gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the brightness of fresh lemon juice to the creamy depth given by egg yolks and the subtle sweetness of shredded carrots, every component adds its own character.

• Chicken broth: The savory base that infuses the soup with rich, hearty goodness.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings the signature tang that brightens the entire dish.
• Shredded carrots: Adds a mild sweetness and a splash of color.
• Finely chopped onion: Provides aromatic depth that enhances every spoonful.
• Finely chopped celery: Offers subtle texture and a fresh crunch.
• Chicken soup base: Intensifies the broth’s flavor for a fuller taste experience.
• Ground white pepper: Adds gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Margarine: Helps create a luscious, thickened consistency in the soup.
• All-purpose flour: Works with margarine to thicken the broth perfectly.
• Egg yolks: Enrich the soup with creaminess and a silky texture.
• Cooked white rice: Brings comforting body and additional texture.
• Diced cooked chicken: Adds protein and satisfying heartiness.
• Lemon slices: The perfect finishing touch, adding visual appeal and extra citrus fragrance.

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by bringing together chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, shredded carrots, finely chopped onion and celery, chicken soup base, and a pinch of ground white pepper in a large pot. Bring this vibrant mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer softens the vegetables and allows their flavors to meld beautifully, setting a rich foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Thicken the Soup

While your broth simmers, prepare a thickening mixture by blending margarine and flour until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the bubbling soup, stirring often to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes as the soup thickens slightly, creating a silky texture that transforms the broth from simple to luxurious.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

This step is where the magic truly happens. Beat the egg yolks until they’re pale and creamy in a separate bowl. To avoid scrambling, slowly add a ladle of hot soup to the yolks while whisking continuously. Then, gently pour this tempered egg mixture back into the simmering pot, stirring until it is fully incorporated. Be careful not to let the soup boil at this point—heat it just enough so it thickens and becomes silky smooth.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

Stir in the cooked white rice and diced chicken, warming everything through over low heat. These comforting additions add body and heartiness to the soup, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Garnishes

A simple slice of fresh lemon placed atop each bowl not only brightens the soup visually but adds an extra zing of citrus aroma with every spoonful. For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill if you have it on hand—herbs complement the brightness of the lemon beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted pita to soak up the luscious broth. A crisp Greek salad on the side can add refreshing crunch and continue the Mediterranean theme. The light but hearty qualities of the soup mean your sides should keep things light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy vibe or elegant white bowls to highlight its vibrant color. For a fun twist, float a thin lemon wheel or herb sprig in the center of each serving. You can even add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for richness and a little sparkle on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for two to three days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve flavors and prevent it from absorbing other odors. The soup may thicken after cooling but simply reheat gently and stir in a splash of broth if needed.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, though you might want to hold off on adding the lemon juice until after thawing to maintain the freshest citrus flavor. Freeze in portioned containers for easy future meals. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat Greek Lemon Chicken Soup gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent curdling and add a little chicken broth or water if the soup feels too thick. Avoid boiling as this can cause the egg yolks to separate and affect the smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken stock instead of broth for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Chicken stock can add a richer flavor if you prefer, but broth works perfectly and keeps the soup lighter. Both provide the essential savory foundation for this recipe.

What can I substitute for margarine in the soup?

You can easily swap margarine for butter or olive oil. Butter gives a richer taste, while olive oil keeps things lighter and adds a subtle fruity note suitable for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Is it okay to add lemon juice earlier in the cooking process?

It’s best to add the fresh lemon juice early on with the broth and vegetables, as it simmers gently to infuse the soup. Adding it too late might not develop the full bright lemon flavor that defines Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the chicken pieces. Consider adding extra vegetables or beans for added protein and heartiness while keeping the core lemony essence intact.

Why does the soup use egg yolks?

Egg yolks create a velvety, creamy texture by enriching the broth without using cream. They help thicken the soup naturally and give it that wonderfully smooth mouthfeel that makes Greek Lemon Chicken Soup so comforting.

Final Thoughts

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is truly a special dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep close for chilly nights or anytime you crave something both nourishing and bright. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this beloved soup your own—it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table, just like it has for generations.

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