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Bowl of authentic Greek avgolemono chicken rice soup with lemon and egg

Avgolemono Soup

A cozy and creamy Greek soup made with chicken, rice, and a tangy lemon-egg mixture, perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are preferred for tenderness.
  • 1 cup white rice Jasmine rice works nicely.
  • 8 to 10 cups chicken broth Homemade is ideal, store-bought is fine.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 small carrots, diced Optional for sweetness.
  • 2 to 3 whole eggs
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Adjust to taste; fresh squeezed is best.
  • to taste teaspoon salt and black pepper Season at the end.
  • a little tablespoon olive oil
  • optional chopped dill or parsley for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a big pot, warm a small splash of olive oil. Add the onion and carrots, and cook for a few minutes until they soften.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender, about 18 to 25 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, reserving the juices.
  4. Add rice to the broth and cook until tender, about 12 to 18 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth, then whisk in the lemon juice until pale and foamy.
  6. While whisking constantly, slowly ladle in hot broth to temper the egg mixture, aiming for 1 to 2 cups total.
  7. Turn the heat to low, pour the warmed egg-lemon mixture back into the pot while stirring, and add the shredded chicken.
  8. Warm gently for a couple of minutes, ensuring it does not boil.
  9. Taste, then add salt and pepper to your preference. Optionally, add more lemon juice or top with dill/parsley before serving.

Notes

Keep the heat gentle after adding the egg lemon mixture to avoid curdling. Fresh lemon is essential for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning and lemon to taste just before serving.