As I stood in my kitchen, the invigorating scent of lemon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to sun-kissed shores of Greece. It’s that magical moment when cooking becomes not just a task, but a delightful escape. Today, I’m eager to share my recipe for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, a nourishing and creamy dish that warms your soul. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners or those days when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s incredibly customizable; you can easily switch in cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist or use leftover chicken for a quicker option. With a handful of ingredients, you’ll create comforting bowls of goodness that not only satisfy but also leave you looking forward to leftovers. Curious to see how you can elevate this classic? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple steps—perfect for busy weeknights!
Nourishing Delight: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for when you’re under the weather or just need a cozy night in.
Customizable Flavors: With options to swap cauliflower rice for orzo or use rotisserie chicken, you can effortlessly tailor the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs!
Versatile Meal Prep: Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, this soup holds up well in the fridge or freezer, ensuring tasty leftovers ready to be enjoyed at any time.
Bright and Zesty: The fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs give the soup a refreshing twist that will leave your taste buds dancing, reminding you of sun-kissed Mediterranean days. Add this dish to your repertoire, and you’ll be eager to make it time and again!
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to nourish your soul!
For the Soup
- Chicken – Provides protein and richness; for convenience, consider using rotisserie chicken.
- Olive Oil – Adds healthy fats and flavor; substitute with butter for a different twist.
- Chicken Broth – The soup’s rich base; vegetable broth can make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Carrots – Contributes sweetness and hearty texture; diced celery can enhance the crunch.
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; feel free to omit it for an onion-free variation.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but powdered works too.
- Dill – Elevates the soup with fresh, fragrant notes; dried dill can be used in smaller amounts.
- Parsley – Adds a fresh taste; it also makes a lovely garnish.
- Oregano – Enriches the flavor with an earthy quality; dried herbs may be used in lesser quantities.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb substitute for orzo that adds bulk; orzo can be used for the traditional texture.
- Egg Yolks – Impart a creamy texture when tempered; omit for a vegan option but you’ll lose some creaminess.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; always use freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
Optional Garnish
- Extra Parsley & Dill – For a fresh finishing touch.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil – Adds a luxurious finish to your warm bowl.
With these Greek Lemon Chicken Soup ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to bring a comforting taste of the Mediterranean to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Ensure each piece is generously coated, which will elevate your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare your cooking equipment.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the seasoned chicken and brown it for 2 minutes on each side, creating a delicious crust. Once golden, set the chicken aside on a plate, allowing the flavors to develop while you move on.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same Dutch oven, lower the heat and add the diced carrots, onion, and minced garlic, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté these ingredients for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and begins to brown, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
Step 4: Add Herbs and Cauliflower Rice
Stir in the chopped dill, parsley, and oregano with the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Next, add the cauliflower rice (or orzo, if desired) to create a nourishing heartiness in your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Mix everything together so the herbs coat the vegetables beautifully.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Return the browned chicken to the pot, submerging it in the liquid. Turn the heat up and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or 10 if using a pressure cooker, until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Add the Orzo
If you’re using orzo instead of cauliflower rice, add it at this point, ensuring it’s well distributed in the soup. Continue to simmer for an additional 7-9 minutes or until the orzo is al dente, absorbing the savory flavors of your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Step 7: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it with the soup to incorporate all the delicious components. This will ensure every spoonful of your soup is filled with flavor and texture.
Step 8: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks. To temper them, ladle a few spoonfuls of hot broth from the soup into the bowl with yolks, whisking constantly. Once warmed, slowly stir this mixture back into the soup, adding a creamy richness to your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Step 9: Add the Lemon Juice
Squeeze in the juice of one large lemon into the soup and stir well. This will brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick that complements the richness perfectly. Taste the soup, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed to enhance its overall flavor.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra chopped parsley and dill for freshness. Drizzle a touch of olive oil over each bowl to enhance the creamy richness. Your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is now ready to be enjoyed, providing warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.
What to Serve with Greek-Style Lemon Chicken Soup
Elevate your cozy dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this creamy and zesty soup.
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Crispy Romaine Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette adds crunch, balancing the soup’s creaminess and enhancing its lemony flavor.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for dipping, providing a satisfying texture contrast with each spoonful of soup.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with lemon zest brightens your meal while packing a nutritious punch.
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Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy-roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the warm, creamy soup.
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Zucchini Fritters: These savory fritters offer a crispy texture and fresh flavors that harmonize with the soup, making for a delicious bite.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of chardonnay, with its fruity and bright notes, will complement the lemony edge of the soup while adding a touch of elegance.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!
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Meatball Swap: Use chicken meatballs for a fun twist, making it easier to enjoy every bite. They’ll add a playful texture that kids love!
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Cauliflower Rice: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that keeps the soup just as hearty. It gives a lovely bulk without the extra carbs, ideal for a healthy choice.
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Add Veggies: Toss in parsnips or bell peppers for added nutrition and vibrant colors. These additions can elevate the dish while providing delightful crunch and flavor.
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Dairy-Free Creaminess: Use coconut milk instead of egg yolks for a creamy texture while keeping it vegan. The coconut milk lends a rich taste and pairs wonderfully with lemon!
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Herb Explosion: Boost flavor with extra herbs like thyme or basil. Fresh herbs can transform your soup into a fragrant masterpiece that whispers Mediterranean breezes.
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Citrus Burst: For a zesty kick, add orange zest along with your lemon juice. The unique brightness from the orange brings a refreshing element that harmonizes beautifully with the lemon.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. It’s a fabulous way to awaken your taste buds if you enjoy a little spice!
In the mood for more? Try my delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup or the comforting Copycat Chicken Soup for your next meal!
Expert Tips for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
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Egg Yolk Technique: Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding hot broth to avoid scrambling. This creates a silky texture in your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
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Orzo Timing: Add orzo towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Keeping it al dente ensures the best bite.
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Reheating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, remember that orzo absorbs liquid. Add extra broth when reheating to keep the soup from getting too thick.
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Freezing for Convenience: This soup freezes well! Freeze portions without the orzo, adding it fresh when reheating, to maintain the best texture.
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Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs elevate the soup’s flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount, as they are more concentrated.
How to Store and Freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy leftovers, consider adding extra broth before refrigerating, as the orzo will absorb moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions without the orzo. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply reheat and add fresh orzo when serving.
Reheating: When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding some broth to adjust the consistency if needed. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Thawing: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results, allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, onion, and garlic) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days in advance, speeding up your cooking time. Additionally, you can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. For best quality, keep the cooked soup without the egg yolks; add them just before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup, stir in the whisked egg yolks, add fresh lemon juice, and serve garnished for a satisfying meal that will save you time during busy weeknights!
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use in Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for richer flavor, or boneless, skinless chicken for a lighter option. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a quick substitute!
How do I know if my lemon is ripe for juicing?
Look for lemons that are firm, bright, and slightly textured. A ripe lemon should feel heavy for its size, indicating juiciness. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as they might be overripe.
How should I store leftovers of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Refrigerate your soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, consider adding a little extra broth before storing since the orzo absorbs liquid as it sits, ensuring you have a pleasant soup texture when reheating.
Can I freeze Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! For best results, freeze the soup without the orzo in individual portions. This way, you can maintain the best texture. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding fresh orzo if desired.
How can I make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use cauliflower rice instead of orzo, and make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free. This allows you to enjoy all the creamy, delicious flavors without worry!
What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
If you find your soup has thickened too much upon reheating, simply stir in a little additional broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the creamy, comforting texture we all love in Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the Chicken with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Brown the Chicken in olive oil for 2 minutes on each side. Set the chicken aside.
- Sauté the diced carrots, onion, and minced garlic for 5–7 minutes.
- Add chopped dill, parsley, and oregano, then stir in cauliflower rice.
- Pour in chicken broth and return the browned chicken. Bring to a vigorous boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
- If using orzo, add it now and simmer for an additional 7-9 minutes.
- Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot.
- Tempering egg yolks: whisk yolks and slowly add hot broth, then stir into the soup.
- Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley, dill, and a drizzle of olive oil.
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