Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup: Easy Avgolemono Recipe

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful bowl of warmth that combines the vibrant flavors of lemon, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs, creating a culinary hug you didn’t know you needed. The soothing aroma wafts through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to a sun-kissed Mediterranean coastline, making every spoonful a mini-vacation for your senses.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of family gatherings where laughter rings louder than clinking dishes. As we gathered around the table, my grandmother’s Avgolemono Soup was always the star of the show, delivering comfort and joy. Now, you too can recreate that blissful experience at home, whether it’s a chilly evening or just a well-deserved moment of self-care.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup:

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Use high-quality olive oil for a richer flavor profile that will elevate your soup.

1 cup chopped green onions – These will add a mild oniony sweetness and a pleasant crunch to your soup.

1 Tbsp minced garlic – Fresh garlic is the key to building a robust flavor base; it brings out the heartiness of the chicken.

7 cups low-sodium chicken broth – A must for the soup base; low-sodium allows control over salt levels without compromising flavor.

3/4 cup jasmine rice or white rice – Jasmine rice adds a lovely fragrance; feel free to substitute with any rice you have on hand.

1 tsp dried oregano – This herb offers a classic Mediterranean flavor that ties the dish together beautifully.

2 bay leaves – Adding bay leaves infuses the soup with a subtle depth of flavor through slow simmering.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

3 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken – Using rotisserie chicken saves time while delivering juicy and flavorful meat.

1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon zest – Fresh zest brings an extra burst of citrus flavor that elevates the soup to another level.

2 large eggs – The eggs are whisked in for a creamy texture that beautifully thickens the soup.

2 large egg yolks – Adding yolks enriches the soup’s taste and adds a velvety finish.

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that refreshing zing characteristic of Avgolemono.

2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley – This herb adds brightness and freshness, making each spoonful more inviting.

1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill – Dill complements the soup’s flavors perfectly and adds a unique twist.

How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen will start to smell like a Mediterranean paradise.

Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Trust me, the sound of bubbling broth is a little piece of heaven.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice and Herbs
Stir in the rice, dried oregano, and bay leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until the rice is just tender. This should take about 15 minutes for jasmine rice or 20 minutes for white rice.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and fresh lemon juice until frothy, about a minute. Take a moment to appreciate how fun it is to whisk eggs while pondering life’s great mysteries.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the shredded chicken and lemon zest into the broth. Remove the pot from heat, and while stirring the soup, slowly pour in the egg mixture. Be gentle; we want creamy, not scrambled! Return it to low heat and stir constantly until the soup thickens slightly, which should take just a minute or two.

Step 6: Serve with Fresh Herbs
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and/or dill. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth until it feels just right. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for the ultimate meal.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is not just a dish; it’s a journey and a reminder that the best meals are often the simplest. Whether you’re enjoying this soup by yourself or sharing it with family and friends, it’s bound to warm hearts and bring smiles, one delicious spoonful at a time. So grab your ingredients, let the cooking begin, and remember, the best memories are often made around the dinner table!

Perfecting Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup Cooking Process

To create a delicious bowl of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup, start by sautéing green onions and garlic to build flavor. Add the broth and rice, then stir in the chicken and egg mixture at the end for that beautiful creamy texture.

Add Your Touch to Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Feel free to customize your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup by swapping jasmine rice with quinoa or adding spinach for an extra nutrient boost. Experiment with herbs, like basil or thyme, to create your unique twist on this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Store the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency.

There was this dinner party I hosted last summer with friends, and the star of the evening was undeniably the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup. Everyone raved about how comforting and zesty it was, leading to seconds—and maybe even thirds!

FAQs About Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

What is Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful twist on traditional chicken soup, infused with zesty lemon flavors and creamy textures. Made with tender shredded rotisserie chicken, fragrant herbs, and wholesome ingredients like jasmine rice and fresh eggs, this soup is both comforting and refreshing. Its origins trace back to Greek cuisine, where the term “avgolemono” is commonly used, combining eggs and lemon to create a silky broth. Enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for gatherings.

How can I customize Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

You can easily personalize Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach, carrots, or peas. Consider swapping jasmine rice for quinoa or barley for a different texture and additional nutrition. Fresh herbs such as dill or basil can enhance the flavor profile, allowing you to create a unique bowl that suits your palate. Feel free to experiment with spice levels by adding crushed red pepper for a little heat or using flavored chicken broth for more depth.

Is Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup healthy?

Yes, Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a health-conscious option! It provides a comforting bowl of nourishment while being low in calories and packed with protein, thanks to the rotisserie chicken and eggs. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs further boosts its vitamin content, making it an excellent choice for those seeking wholesome meals. You can easily modify the recipe to reduce sodium or fat by using low-sodium broth and adjusting the amount of olive oil, ensuring it aligns with your dietary preferences.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. Crusty bread or warm pita is also a fantastic accompaniment for dipping. If you want something heartier, a side of roasted vegetables can enhance flavors and provide additional nutrients. Whatever you choose, this soup is sure to be the star of your dinner table!

Conclusion for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

In summary, Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a vibrant and versatile dish that beautifully marries comforting textures with zesty flavors. By utilizing simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can create a satisfying meal that caters to both traditional and adventurous palates. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or shared with friends at a gathering, this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret bringing this delightful dish to your table!

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting, zesty blend of flavors that brings restaurant-quality tastes into your home.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 5 bowls

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 338

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Base Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic
• 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 3/4 cup jasmine rice or white rice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon zest
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill

Equipment

• large pot
• medium mixing bowl

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add green onion and garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Stir in rice, oregano, bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until rice is just tender, about 15 minutes for jasmine rice and 20 minutes for white rice.
4. Near the end of cooking, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and lemon juice in a medium mixing bowl until frothy for about 1 minute. Slowly pour in 1 cup hot broth from soup while whisking.
5. Stir in chicken and lemon zest. Remove from heat and while stirring soup, pour in egg mixture. Return to heat and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until soup has thickened slightly for a minute or two.
6. Serve with parsley and/or dill. Add more chicken broth to thin soup if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 338kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 35gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 226mgSodium: 924mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g

Notes

Customize your soup with additional vegetables or herbs for a unique touch. You can easily store leftovers for up to three days and reheat gently.

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