Name: Avgolemono Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1/2 cup white rice or orzo; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional)

A warm, lemony bowl of Avgolemono Soup is comfort food at its Mediterranean finest. This Greek classic combines tender chicken, velvety egg-lemon sauce, and rice or orzo into a silky, cozy soup that’s satisfying and incredibly simple to make. The secret? Whisked eggs and lemon juice stirred in just right to thicken the broth without cream.

Each spoonful brings balance: bright citrus, hearty broth, and the subtle richness of egg. It’s the kind of dish you crave on chilly evenings, when you’re under the weather, or when you just want something soul-soothing but not heavy. This soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Avgolemono Soup

It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Silky and comforting without being heavy.
Naturally gluten-free when made with rice.
Bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness.
Feels fancy but takes just 30 minutes to make.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Short grain white rice is the traditional choice for Avgolemono Soup, as it releases more starch and helps give the soup that creamy, thick consistency. However, you can absolutely use long grain, jasmine, or even orzo pasta if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly and make sure the rice or pasta is fully cooked before adding the egg-lemon mixture.

Ingredients for the Avgolemono Soup

A few basic ingredients build the foundation of this comforting Greek soup:

Chicken broth: This is the body of your soup. Go for homemade or low-sodium store-bought for best flavor.
Cooked chicken: Traditionally made with poached or shredded chicken breast, it’s the protein-rich heart of the dish.
Rice or orzo: Gives the soup substance and helps thicken it naturally.
Eggs: Whipped into the broth to create that iconic silky texture.
Lemon juice: The star flavor. Fresh-squeezed lemon brightens the entire dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the soup to perfection.
Fresh dill or parsley (optional): For a pop of color and extra aroma.

How To Make the Avgolemono Soup

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer and stir in your rice. Let it cook until tender—about 15-20 minutes for white rice. If using orzo, 8-10 minutes should do.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until smooth and frothy. To temper the mixture (so it doesn’t scramble!), slowly ladle in 1 cup of hot broth while whisking constantly.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

Reduce heat to low. Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture into the pot, stirring gently. Let it heat for 2-3 minutes without boiling—the soup should thicken slightly and turn silky.

Step 4: Add Chicken & Season

Stir in the cooked shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it all warm through, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Ladle into bowls and top with fresh dill or parsley if using. Serve with crusty bread or a simple Greek salad on the side.

How to Serve and Store Avgolemono Soup

Avgolemono Soup is best served hot and fresh, when the lemon flavor is brightest and the texture is at its silkiest. This recipe comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat—avoid boiling or the egg mixture may separate. Freezing isn’t ideal as it can affect the texture, but if you must, leave out the egg-lemon mixture and stir it in fresh after thawing.

What to Serve With Avgolemono Soup?

Crusty Bread or Pita

Perfect for dunking and soaking up every drop of broth.

Greek Salad

The freshness of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta adds balance to the rich soup.

Roasted Lemon Potatoes

A tangy, herbed side that echoes the lemony notes in the soup.

Grilled Halloumi

Adds a savory, salty element that pairs beautifully.

Spanakopita

A slice of flaky spinach pie brings more Greek goodness to the meal.

Olives & Hummus Platter

Turn your soup into a mezze-inspired feast.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

Also known as dolmades, these make an elegant side or appetizer.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you’re loving this lemony Greek comfort, here are more warm bowls to try next:

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for cheesy, cozy satisfaction.
A Hearty and Comforting Tuscan Bean Soup packed with Italian flavor.
Easy Vegetable Beef Soup for a protein-rich classic.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup with a Tex-Mex twist.
Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup for something bold and exotic.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use rice or orzo? Chicken breast or thigh? A little extra lemon?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s keep cooking deliciously!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Avgolemono Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Nora
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a silky, citrusy comfort dish with a Greek twist? Avgolemono Soup is your answer. This traditional Greek soup features tender chicken, creamy eggs, zesty lemon juice, and hearty rice in a comforting broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for guests. Whether you’re battling cold weather or just want a quick nourishing meal, this easy recipe delivers bold flavor with a healthy twist. Great for anyone needing quick dinner ideas, gluten-free comfort food, or easy soup recipes with a Mediterranean vibe.