Chicken lemon rice soup is the perfect combination of hearty comfort and zesty freshness. This simple yet delicious recipe, made with avgolemono sauces and cups of chicken broth, offers a nourishing meal that is ideal for any time of year. Cooked over medium-high heat, it achieves the perfect creamy texture and vibrant lemon flavour, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy.
The Origins of the Avgolemono Recipe
Rooted in Greek culinary tradition, Avgolemono is a beloved staple among Greek lemon chicken soups, celebrated for its unique blend of flavours. The recipe combines hot broth, tangy avgolemono sauces, and long grain rice for a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Traditionally prepared on stove top , it can also be made effortlessly in a rice cooker for added convenience. Served with lemon slices and enjoyed in medium bowls, this dish perfectly balances creamy texture with zesty freshness, making it a timeless favourite soup.
The recipe
Chicken, Lemon & Rice Soup
Step 1
Heat a large pot over high heat. Add in the olive oil. And when shimmering, add the carrot and sauté for 3 minutes. Add the garlic and continue cooking for 30 seconds. Stir in the Dainty Long and Wild Rice, along with the zucchini and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to medium low. Allow to cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 2
If using leftover roasted chicken, stir in to combine. If using uncooked chicken breast, add in the diced breast and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 3
Add in the lemon zest, juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and finish with the green onion.
Step 4
Optional: in a medium mixing bowl, whisk the 2 eggs. While whisking, add a ladle full of the hot broth into the egg slowly, as not to scramble the egg. Turn the heat off the soup and slowly stir in the egg mixture. Adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, and pepper if needed.
What Are the Occasions For an Avgolemono?
Avgolemono, a classic comforting soup with rice, is versatile enough to fit a variety of occasions. Its balance of tender chicken, tangy lemon flavour, and creamy egg mixture makes it ideal for a cozy dinner during soup season. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or pairing it with a salad, this brothy soup is perfect for any gathering.
For family meals, Avgolemono Chicken Soup offers a soup pot portion that satisfies everyone, from kids to adults. It also shines as a starter for dinner parties, where its rich Greek soup heritage adds a touch of sophistication to the table. By cooking it on medium heat or in a rice cooker with a touch of lemon juice, you’ll achieve the perfect consistency. Plus, it’s a go-to for those looking for delicious recipes to boost their immune system during colder months.
Finally, Avgolemono makes an excellent addition to your collection of rice recipes ideas, especially when prepared with either a blend of long-grain rice or a plain long grain rice for perfect texture and taste.
Tips to Complete your Meal
Enhance your creamy chicken lemon rice soup experience by pairing it with complementary dishes. A fresh Greek salad with crisp cucumbers, feta cheese adds yellow onion with fresh lemon juice on the top and season with salt and black pepper. For a heartier option, serve warm pita bread or garlic toast on the side to soak up the brothy soup.
Complete your meal with a light dessert, such as baklava or a simple fruit salad, to balance the tangy and savoury notes of this comforting soup. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to enjoy the next day—this dish only gets better with time.
