Description
Avgolemono is a comforting Greek lemon chicken soup that combines traditional flavors with a simple preparation method.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, extra virgin
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2–3 celery stalks, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 350 g total)
- 6 cups (1.5 L) chicken stock
- 3/4 cup (175 g) orzo
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 egg yolks
- A handful fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat & Sauté Aromatics: Start by heating up the olive oil in a large stock pot until it is shimmering. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, but do not let them brown.
- Add Chicken & Broth: Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock and stir gently to combine. Allow everything to come to a simmer, being careful not to boil too vigorously to prevent drying out the chicken.
- Simmer to Cook Chicken: Allow the mixture to simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 20 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.
- Whisk Eggs & Lemon: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until frothy. This mixture will provide a creamy texture to the soup.
- Temper Eggs Carefully: Slowly add a ladle of the hot soup into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Mix in Egg Mixture: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot while stirring continuously. The soup will develop a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Adjust Flavors & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Expert Tips: Make sure to temper the eggs to avoid scrambling. If you desire a creamier soup, you can add 1 tablespoon of butter. Check the orzo often while cooking, reducing time slightly to avoid mushiness.
- Reheating Instructions: When reheating, if the soup becomes thicker than desired, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its original consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, or top with fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost. Pair with a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Recipe Variations: You can add spinach or kale for extra greens, or substitute orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Ingredient Notes: Use firm and fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, unblemished produce. When selecting chicken, choose tender, juicy breasts with a nice pink hue.
- Substitution Options: For orzo, you can use another small pasta or rice, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If the flavor is too sour, consider adjusting with salt or pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 377
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 679mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 154mg