Name: Delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached); ½ cup orzo or rice; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley

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Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting and tangy Greek-inspired dish combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a bright lemon-egg sauce called avgolemono. This delicious soup captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, making it perfect for a cold day. With its healthy ingredients and easy stovetop method, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a nourishing experience. Here are several reasons to love it:

It’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a healthy Mediterranean chicken soup.
The bright flavors of lemon provide a refreshing twist.
It serves as a comforting dish for any season, especially during cold days.
This soup is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
The addition of herbs and spices enhances its Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
½ cup orzo or rice
2 large eggs
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley

How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the orzo or rice, reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta or rice is tender.
Step 3: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and fresh lemon juice. To temper the eggs, slowly drizzle in about ½ cup of the hot broth from the soup while continuously whisking to prevent curdling.
Step 5: Gradually stir the tempered egg and lemon mixture back into the soup pot. Simmer gently on low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the soup thickens slightly—avoid boiling to prevent scrambling the eggs.
Step 6: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your preference. Stir in the chopped fresh dill or parsley for a bright finishing touch. Serve the soup hot, optionally with warm pita or crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
Make sure to temper the eggs carefully to avoid curdling.
Fresh herbs enhance the flavor, so don’t skip the dill or parsley.
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream at the end.

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This chicken soup with lemon is versatile. Here are a few ideas:

Serve it with warm pita bread for dipping.
Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.
Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This soup is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

The key to a perfect lemon chicken soup recipe lies in the balance of flavors. Using fresh lemon juice and herbs enhances the taste, while the careful tempering of eggs creates a silky texture.

Can I make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this soup ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to ensure it remains delicious and comforting.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

Avoid boiling the soup after adding the egg and lemon mixture to prevent curdling. Also, ensure your broth is well-seasoned for the best flavor.

Variations of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this soup:

Add spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
Use quinoa instead of orzo for a protein-packed option.
Incorporate different herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or try making creamy potato soup for a comforting meal. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider healthy Greek chicken bowls as a side dish.

For more information on the health benefits of Mediterranean diets, you can visit Healthline.