© Original Recipe By The Sizzle Spot ©
Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Evoke 🍋🍗🌿
1. Introduction
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Known for its bright citrus notes and hearty chicken base, this Greek soup combines fresh ingredients to create a comforting yet refreshing dish. Whether you’re seeking a light meal or a warming option during chilly days, this lemon chicken soup offers a perfect balance of zest and savory goodness. Dive into our step-by-step guide to craft this authentic Mediterranean chicken soup and enjoy a taste of Greece right at home.
2. Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta (or rice as a substitute)
- Juice of 3 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. How to Make Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Step 1: Prepare the chicken broth and cook the chicken
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. This will serve as the flavorful base for your Greek soup.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In the simmering broth, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften, enriching the broth with their hearty flavors.
Step 3: Shred the chicken and add to the soup
Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring well to incorporate it into the broth.
Step 4: Cook the orzo pasta
Add the orzo or rice to the soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors of the broth.
Step 5: Add lemon and herbs
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest of one lemon to give the soup its signature bright flavor. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Serve the Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Ladle the hot Mediterranean chicken soup into bowls, garnish with chopped dill or parsley, and serve immediately. For an added flavor dimension, pair with crusty bread or a side of Greek pita.
4. Tips for the Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Use fresh lemon juice for a vibrant citrus flavor that makes the soup stand out.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preference — add gradually and taste as you go.
- For a richer broth, add a splash of white wine during cooking.
- To make this dish dairy-free, skip the butter or cream and rely solely on lemon for richness.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
This Greek soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best flavor retention. If the soup thickens upon cooling, add a splash of chicken broth or water during reheating to restore its consistency.
6. Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Enjoy your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup with a side of warm garlic bread or a fresh Greek salad. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, consider pairing it with some hummus and pita chips. This hearty yet refreshing dish is also perfect as a starter for dinner parties or family gatherings.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute chicken with turkey or tofu?
Yes, you can swap chicken with turkey breast for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, cubed tofu works well, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
How long does it take to prepare this Greek soup?
From start to finish, expect about 40-45 minutes. This includes prep time, cooking the chicken, and simmering the soup with the vegetables and pasta.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Yes, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or cooked rice. Ensure your broth is gluten-free if you’re following a strict gluten-free diet.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: For quick preparation of side dishes or reheating leftovers, this versatile tool simplifies cooking at home.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heat distribution for sautéing vegetables and cooking pasta with ease. It’s essential for any comprehensive kitchen setup.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Perfect if you want a quick way to prepare crispy bread or grilled side dishes alongside your soup.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: For enhancing your Greek meal with a rich coffee, this machine brews café-quality espresso at home.
9. Conclusion
Embark on a flavorful journey with this authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. It’s a hearty, healthful, and citrus-kissed dish that perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this Mediterranean chicken soup will impress with its fresh ingredients and bright flavors. Enjoy the simple steps to prepare an irresistible bowl of Greek soup that embodies tradition and taste. Try it today and bring a taste of Greece to your table!
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Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Evoke
A traditional Greek lemon chicken soup featuring shredded chicken, fresh lemon juice, and herbs, served warm and hearty.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup orzo or rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat chicken broth in a large pot.
- Add shredded chicken and orzo; simmer until pasta is tender.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until combined.
- Gradually add a ladle of hot broth into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- Pour this mixture back into the soup, stirring gently to prevent curdling.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine during simmering.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Simmering, Whisking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten-Free if using rice, Dairy-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
