Irresistible Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe to Savor

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a culinary hug in a bowl, bursting with zesty flavors and heartwarming aromas. Imagine cozying up with a steaming bowl of this golden elixir, where tender chicken dances in a broth that’s as vibrant as the sun-kissed shores of Greece. The moment you take a sip, the bright notes of lemon and fresh herbs tickle your taste buds, making every spoonful an invitation to paradise.

This soup isn’t just about flavor; it’s steeped in memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of garlic and lemon. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you simply need a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. Trust me, once you try this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, you’ll understand why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2-3 chicken breasts for a hearty soup. They should be fresh and juicy for the best flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while still delivering rich flavor.
• Fresh Lemons: You’ll need both the juice and zest for that signature zingy taste. Choose plump lemons for maximum juiciness.
• Orzo Pasta: A small pasta like orzo adds heartiness and texture to the soup. Cook it separately to avoid mushiness.
• Carrots and Celery: These veggies provide sweetness and depth to the broth; chop them finely for even cooking.
• Fresh Dill or Parsley: For garnish and added freshness. Use fresh herbs whenever possible for an aromatic finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your carrots, celery, and garlic. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in your chopped carrots and celery, sautéing until they soften—about five minutes should do it.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Let them cool slightly before shredding them into bite-sized pieces with two forks.

Step 5: Mix in Orzo

Add orzo pasta directly into the simmering broth along with lemon juice and zest. Stir well and let it cook according to package instructions—usually around eight minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Herbs

Once the orzo is cooked al dente, return shredded chicken to the pot along with freshly chopped dill or parsley. Give everything one last stir before serving.

Transfer to bowls and garnish with additional herbs if desired. This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a light salad on the side—now that’s what I call dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the rice while preparing the zesty lemon broth. This method ensures everything is ready at the same time, leaving you with a warm bowl of comfort that sings with Mediterranean charm.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the rice for orzo or add in some fresh spinach for extra nutrients. Experimenting with different herbs like dill or parsley can elevate your Greek lemon chicken soup to new aromatic heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain that delightful consistency.

Sometimes I whip up this Greek lemon chicken soup when I want to impress my friends with my “culinary skills.” They always rave about how I must have trained in a fancy Mediterranean kitchen—little do they know it’s just this easy recipe!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

To make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, gather boneless chicken thighs or breasts, fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, rice or orzo pasta, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and herbs like dill and parsley. You will also need eggs to create the signature creamy texture. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful and nourishing soup that is perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?

Preparing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking time can vary but usually ranges from 30 to 40 minutes. This means you can enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting soup in under an hour. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or when you want a quick yet satisfying meal.

Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in advance! Prepare the soup and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve it again, simply reheat on the stove. Keep in mind that the rice or pasta may absorb some broth during storage; you might want to add extra liquid when reheating.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup healthy?

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is quite healthy! The combination of lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and wholesome broth makes it nutrient-dense. Additionally, lemon juice provides vitamin C while herbs like dill and parsley offer antioxidants. This soup is low in calories yet filling, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Conclusion for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup:

In summary, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh flavors and comforting broth. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. This soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with its healthy components. Enjoy making this classic dish that brings warmth and joy to your table!

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Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Greek

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Description

Warm your soul with this vibrant Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, featuring tender chicken, bright lemon flavors, and fresh herbs for a comforting meal any day of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Chop the carrots, celery, and garlic. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped carrots and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the pot with vegetables. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Remove chicken from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Allow to cool slightly, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
5. Add orzo pasta directly into the simmering broth along with lemon juice and zest. Stir well and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes).
6. Once orzo is cooked al dente, return shredded chicken to the pot along with freshly chopped dill or parsley. Stir before serving.
7. Transfer to bowls and garnish with additional herbs if desired.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a boost of nutrients, consider adding fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This soup can also be made ahead of time; just reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.