If you have ever wanted to try a comforting and vibrant soup that’s both tangy and silky, the Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. This classic Greek chicken soup brings together the bright flavors of lemon with a rich egg-thickened broth, a texture so smooth it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With tender shredded chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh dill, this dish is perfect for any day you crave something nourishing yet effortlessly elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Embracing simplicity and quality, this recipe uses ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering that classic avgolemono taste and texture. From the savory broths that build the base to the fresh lemon that awakens the palate, every component is essential to achieving this soup’s magic.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful foundation with comforting savory notes.
- 2 cups bone broth: Adds depth and richness, boosting nutrition and mouthfeel.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the soup with fresh citrus aroma and subtle tang.
- Juice of 2 lemons: Delivers the signature tartness that defines this soup’s unique flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse a gentle aromatic warmth during simmering.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances flavors while enhancing all ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- 2-3 large eggs: Create the luscious, silky texture that is characteristic of avgolemono.
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender protein that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice: Provides body and a gentle bite to the soup.
- 2 tbsp fresh dill: Introduces a bright herbaceous note to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe
Step 1: Build the Flavorful Broth
Start by combining the chicken broth, bone broth, zesty lemon peel, juice of half the lemon, bay leaves, salt, and pepper in a large saucepan. Let this simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic base that’s full of depth and brightness, laying the perfect groundwork for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg and Lemon Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and frothy. Slowly whisk in the remaining lemon juice. Then, carefully temper the eggs by gradually adding hot broth from the saucepan into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This technique is crucial—it ensures the eggs blend evenly without curdling, giving you that signature creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine the Egg Mixture with the Broth
Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the hot broth while whisking consistently. Be sure to keep the heat low and avoid boiling the soup to maintain its silky smoothness. After the mixture is fully incorporated, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked basmati rice. Each spoonful will now be bursting with balanced flavors and a satisfying heartiness.
Step 4: Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaves and sprinkle the soup with fresh dill. This herb adds a beautiful pop of green color and a delicate aroma that perfectly complements the lemony richness. Don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil and a crack of black pepper to elevate the flavors just before it reaches the table.
How to Serve Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the experience, fresh dill is your best friend—it adds a fragrant brightness and visual appeal. A drizzle of quality extra virgin olive oil offers a silky finish, while freshly cracked black pepper brings just the right amount of bite. These garnishes make the soup look inviting and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but pairing it with crusty bread or a simple Greek salad can turn it into a full, satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up those tangy, creamy broth vibes, while a crisp salad provides a refreshing textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve the Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe in charming bowls with a sprig of dill and a lemon wedge on the side for guests to adjust tartness to their liking. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few drops of chili oil if you want to add a twist and impress your friends with your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Give it a good stir before reheating to recombine any ingredients that may have settled.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe, do so before adding the rice and chicken to maintain their texture after thawing. Freeze the broth and egg mixture separately to avoid graininess. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat while adding back the cooked ingredients.
Reheating
Reheat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the eggs from curdling. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This gentle reheating keeps the soup silky and fresh-tasting as if it were just made.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken broth instead of bone broth?
Absolutely! Regular chicken broth works just fine and will still deliver wonderful flavor. Bone broth adds extra richness and nutrients but is not essential.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the soup?
The key is tempering. Slowly whisk in hot broth into the egg mixture before adding it back to the pot. Also, keep the heat low and never let the soup boil once the egg mixture is added.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can substitute vegetable broth and omit the chicken, or use a plant-based protein if you prefer. Keep the lemon and egg combo for that distinct avgolemono tang and texture.
Is it best to use fresh lemon juice or bottled?
Fresh lemon juice is always best as it provides a bright, clean flavor. Bottled juice can sometimes taste flat or overly acidic, which may affect the final taste.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Basmati is preferred for its light, fluffy texture, but you can also use jasmine or even arborio rice. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding to the soup.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe is such a beautiful example of how simple ingredients and a little technique can create a dish so comforting and vibrant at the same time. Once you try it, this soup will quickly become a favorite go-to, perfect for sharing with family or curling up solo with a warm bowl. Give it a whirl, and I promise it will brighten your day and your appetite.
Print
Easy Avgolemono Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Avgolemono Soup is a comforting Greek classic made with chicken broth, lemon, eggs, and tender shredded chicken. The creamy, tangy broth combined with rice and fresh dill creates a flavorful and hearty soup perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you need a soothing dish.
Ingredients
Broth and Soup Base
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups bone broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 lemons (divided)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Egg Mixture
- 2–3 large eggs
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base: In a large saucepan, combine the chicken broth, bone broth, lemon zest, juice of 1 lemon, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the juice of the remaining lemon and mix well. To temper the eggs and prevent curdling, slowly add hot broth from the saucepan into the egg mixture while continuously whisking.
- Combine Egg Mixture with Broth: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the hot broth in the saucepan, whisking continuously. Make sure the soup does not boil to avoid the eggs scrambling; the goal is to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Add Chicken and Rice: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked basmati rice until evenly incorporated and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped dill, a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Enjoy this warm and comforting soup immediately.
Notes
- Tempering the eggs is essential to avoid curdling and achieve the characteristic creamy texture of avgolemono soup.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add maximum flavor.
- Bone broth adds depth and richness but can be substituted with all chicken broth if unavailable.
- Do not boil the soup after adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
- This soup can be made dairy-free easily, as it contains no dairy products.
- For a thicker soup, you may reduce the broth slightly before adding the egg mixture.
