Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color & depth); 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!); 1 cup orzo or rice; 2 large eggs; Juice of 2 lemons, freshly squeezed; Salt & black pepper, to taste; Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich yet Light: The lemon-egg mixture adds a creamy texture without using heavy cream.
Comforting & Nourishing: Warm broth, tender chicken, and orzo or rice make it a satisfying meal.
Easy to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Customizable: Can be made with or without rice, or even turned vegetarian.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color & depth)
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
1 cup orzo or rice
2 large eggs
Juice of 2 lemons, freshly squeezed
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in oregano, turmeric, salt, and black pepper for added depth.

Step 2: Add the Broth & Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Stir in orzo or rice, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the grains are tender.
Add the shredded chicken and allow it to warm through.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon-Egg Mixture (Avgolemono Style)

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and lemon juice until smooth.
Slowly ladle in 1 cup of hot broth, whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents curdling).
Gradually pour the tempered mixture back into the soup while stirring continuously to create a silky, creamy texture.

Step 4: Final Touches & Serving

Let the soup simmer for 2 minutes—avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh dill and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use chickpeas instead of shredded chicken.
Low-Carb Version: Swap orzo or rice with cauliflower rice or omit grains altogether.
Creamier Texture: Add an extra egg yolk or blend a small portion of the soup before serving.
Extra Protein: Stir in an extra egg white for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the egg-lemon mixture may separate upon reheating.
Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring constantly. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

What is Avgolemono?

Avgolemono is a traditional Greek soup made with a lemon-egg mixture that creates a creamy, velvety texture.

Can I make this soup without eggs?

Yes! The soup will be more broth-based but still delicious. You can add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.

How do I prevent the eggs from curdling?

Whisk the eggs with lemon juice, then slowly add hot broth while continuously stirring to temper the mixture before adding it to the soup.

What can I substitute for orzo?

Rice, quinoa, pearl couscous, or even small pasta shapes work well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! It’s a great way to save time and add extra flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the aromatics and broth in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. Add orzo/rice in the last 30 minutes, then follow the Avgolemono step before serving.

What other herbs can I use besides dill?

Parsley, thyme, or basil can be used for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this soup tangier?

Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Can I use bone broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, bone broth adds more nutrients and a richer taste.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with warm pita bread, a Greek salad, or a side of hummus and olives for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a bright, creamy, and comforting dish packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or a refreshing yet hearty soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it warm with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in every spoonful