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Experience a refreshing twist on traditional chicken soup with this Greek lemon chicken soup, also known as Avgolemono. Combining the comforting flavors of chicken with the zest of fresh lemon, this soup warms the soul while tantalizing your tastebuds. The velvety texture, complemented by fresh parsley and slices of lemon for garnish, makes it a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 3/4 cup orzo pasta or rice
  • 3 large eggs
  • Juice of 3 lemons (about 1/2 cup)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Orzo (9-11 minutes): In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Egg-Lemon Mixture (5 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Gradually add the lemon juice to the eggs, whisking continuously.
  3. Temper Egg Mixture (5 minutes): Slowly ladle about a cup of the hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. This step tempers the eggs, helping them smoothly integrate into the soup without curdling.
  4. Combine & Serve (5 minutes): Lower the heat to its minimum setting. Gently stir the tempered egg-lemon mixture back into the pot. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest, and mix well. Be cautious not to let the soup boil after adding the egg-lemon mixture.
  5. Garnish & Enjoy (2 minutes): Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Notes

Mastering this Greek lemon chicken soup requires careful attention to the egg tempering process to ensure a beautifully creamy texture without any egg curds. Remember not to boil the soup after the egg mixture is added. A slice of rustic bread or a fresh Greek salad pairs wonderfully with this soup, enhancing its delightful flavors. Additionally, using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also gives the soup a richer taste. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition