Greek lemon rice soup recipe—those are the five words that completely changed the way I think about comfort food. They may not sound like a dessert, but they bring just as much comfort, nostalgia, and love to the table.
Hi, I’m Flora Thompson—though most people call me Tasty Flora. I’m a proud mom of two little ones, a dessert-obsessed home chef, and the creative voice behind the Rite Humn blog. While my readers know me best for my cakes, cookies, and no-bake delights, today I want to share a savory dish that holds a permanent place in my recipe journal: a soul-soothing, lemony, creamy Greek lemon rice soup recipe passed down from a friend and now passed on to you.
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Table of Contents
It all started one chilly winter weekend. The kids were bundled in blankets, the house was quiet, and we were all recovering from a lingering flu. I needed something that felt like a hug in a bowl—something warm, nourishing, and easy on the stomach. That’s when I remembered a handwritten note from a Greek friend who once told me, “When you’re tired or cold or sad—just make Avgolemono.”
I pulled it out, read the faded ink, and set to work. Broth, rice, eggs, fresh lemon juice—it didn’t seem like much. But the transformation in that pot was magical. From the moment I stirred in the tempered eggs and squeezed in that tart citrus, the kitchen filled with a scent that was somehow both refreshing and cozy. That night, my family had their first taste of what would soon become a weekly tradition: this beautiful, healing Greek lemon rice soup recipe.
From then on, it wasn’t just a dish—it was a memory maker. Even my kids, usually soup skeptics, would ask for seconds. That’s the power of a good homemade meal, especially one rooted in tradition and flavored with care.
In this article, I’ll show you:
- Exactly how to make this Greek classic at home
- Easy ways to modify the recipe with orzo or without chicken
- How to properly temper eggs for that creamy finish (without curdling!)
- How much lemon juice to use for the perfect zing
- And answers to your top questions, like “Can I freeze Avgolemono?”
This isn’t just a Greek lemon rice soup recipe—it’s a story, a memory, and a new tradition waiting to happen in your home too.
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Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Greek Lemon Rice Soup, or Avgolemono, is a comforting Greek dish made with tender rice, rich chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and creamy eggs. This light yet hearty soup can be customized with chicken or orzo, making it perfect for cozy meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
2 qt Chicken broth
⅔ cup Long Grain Rice
½ cup Fresh Lemon Juice
3 large Eggs
1 cup Shredded Chicken (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Broth and Rice
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth has absorbed some of the rice’s starch.Make the Avgolemono Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot broth to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to gradually raise the temperature of the eggs (tempering).Combine and Thicken
Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture back into the pot with the rice and broth while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the soup thickens and becomes creamy.Optional Add-in: Shredded Chicken
If you prefer a heartier soup, add shredded chicken to the pot and stir until heated through. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely protein boost.Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more lemon juice or salt as needed. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can add a little more fresh lemon juice.Serve
Serve your Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired. Pair with a light Greek salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
Substitute for Rice: You can use orzo instead of long-grain rice if you prefer a different texture. Just use an equal amount of orzo and adjust cooking time accordingly.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version of this soup.
Freezing: While the texture may slightly change after freezing, you can freeze Avgolemono for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Understanding the Key Ingredients of Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe
Chicken Broth – The Heart of Flavor in Greek Lemon Rice Soup
Chicken broth is the backbone of a great Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe, providing depth and richness that complements the lightness of the rice and the tanginess of the lemon. While you can make your own homemade chicken broth, store-bought versions can work just as well in this recipe if you’re short on time. The quality of the chicken broth matters, so opt for a low-sodium or homemade variety to keep the flavors bright and clean.
Long Grain Rice – A Key Element for Texture in Your Greek Lemon Rice Soup
Rice is the star of any good Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe, giving the soup a satisfying texture. Long-grain rice works well because it absorbs the chicken broth without becoming too mushy. You can experiment with other rice varieties like jasmine or basmati, but long grain remains the traditional choice. Cooking the rice in the broth allows it to soak up all the flavors, making it the perfect base for this comforting Greek Lemon Rice Soup.
The Role of Lemon and Eggs in Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe (Avgolemono)
Fresh Lemon Juice – Adding Zing and Freshness to Your Greek Lemon Rice Soup
Fresh lemon juice in this Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe is key to balancing the richness of the broth and eggs. The acidity of the lemon elevates the soup, giving it a tangy, refreshing kick that brightens every spoonful. For the best results, always use fresh lemons – bottled lemon juice doesn’t provide the same depth of flavor. The lemon’s sharpness brings out the soup’s best qualities, making it a delicious and refreshing dish.
Eggs – Creating the Creamy Avgolemono Base in Greek Lemon Rice Soup
The eggs in Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe (Avgolemono) are responsible for creating the soup’s signature creamy texture. When tempered correctly, they thicken the soup and create a velvety, smooth finish. It’s essential to add the eggs gradually, ensuring they don’t curdle and ruin the soup’s texture. This delicate process is what makes Avgolemono unique and a standout dish in the Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe category.
The Secret to Perfect Avgolemono
Tempering the Eggs – What Does It Mean?
Tempering eggs may sound intimidating, but it’s a simple process that ensures your eggs don’t scramble when added to the hot broth. To temper the eggs, you’ll slowly whisk in a bit of the hot broth into the beaten eggs, raising their temperature gradually. Once they’re warmed up, you can pour the mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
Achieving the Right Balance of Lemon and Egg
The perfect Avgolemono soup strikes a balance between the acidity of the lemon and the richness of the egg. Too much lemon can overpower the soup, while too little will make it lackluster. Likewise, the egg should lend creaminess without becoming too heavy. The key is to taste and adjust the lemon and egg mixture until you’re happy with the flavor and texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together until smooth. Gradually add a ladle of hot broth from the pot to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly. Once the egg mixture is warm, slowly add it back to the pot, stirring constantly to create a creamy texture
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Greek Lemon Rice Soup
Preparing the Rice and Broth
Start by bringing your chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the long-grain rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed some of the flavors from the broth.
Making the Avgolemono Sauce
Customizing the Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe – Add-Ins and Variations
Optional Chicken for Extra Protein in Your Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe
While traditional Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe (Avgolemono) is often served without meat, adding shredded chicken can provide an extra layer of richness and protein. This is especially great if you have leftover rotisserie chicken or want a heartier meal. Simply stir the shredded chicken into the soup once it’s ready, allowing it to heat through. The addition of chicken not only boosts the protein content but also adds a savory element that complements the tangy lemon and creamy broth.
Using Orzo Instead of Rice in Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe
If you want to change things up in your Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe, consider using orzo instead of rice. Orzo is a small, pasta-like grain that will soak up the broth in much the same way rice does. It adds a slightly different texture but remains a delicious alternative. The orzo will absorb the rich chicken broth, making it just as comforting as the traditional rice-based version of Greek Lemon Rice Soup.
Final Tips for Perfect Avgolemono
Taste and Adjust
The beauty of Avgolemono is its versatility. Always taste your soup and adjust the seasoning, lemon, and egg ratio until it’s just right. Everyone’s preference for tanginess and creaminess is different, so feel free to make the recipe your own.
Serve with Fresh Herbs
For an extra burst of freshness, consider garnishing your Avgolemono soup with fresh parsley or dill. The herbs add a lovely color and depth of flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
Pairing Your Soup – What to Serve with Avgolemono
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
Avgolemono pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad or some fresh, crusty bread for dipping. The lightness of the soup complements the richness of the salad, and the bread helps soak up every last bit of the delicious broth.
A Cozy Meal for the Whole Family
This Greek Lemon Rice Soup is not only perfect for winter nights but also a great dish for family gatherings. Its simplicity and comforting nature make it a go-to choice for a meal that everyone will love.
Conclusion
Greek Lemon Rice Soup, or Avgolemono, is a recipe that has been cherished for generations. With its bright lemon flavor and creamy egg texture, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you choose to make it traditional or customize it with chicken or orzo, this soup will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home. I hope this recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and create something comforting and delicious for your loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Avgolemono?
Avgolemono is a traditional Greek soup made with chicken broth, eggs, lemon juice, and rice. It’s a comforting dish that combines creamy egg-based broth with the zing of lemon, creating a balance of flavors that’s both soothing and refreshing.
Can I Make Avgolemono Without Chicken?
Absolutely! While traditional Avgolemono often includes chicken, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. The lemon and egg base will still provide the signature creamy and tangy flavors.
Why Temper the Eggs, and How?
Tempering the eggs in your Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe is essential because it prevents them from curdling when added to the hot broth. To temper the eggs, you slowly add a small amount of hot broth to the eggs while whisking constantly. This gradually raises the temperature of the eggs before they’re mixed into the pot, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture that is signature to the Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe. Proper tempering ensures the eggs don’t scramble, allowing the soup to achieve that perfect velvety finish that makes Greek Lemon Rice Soup so comforting and delicious.
How Much Lemon Juice Should I Use?
The amount of lemon juice you use can vary based on your preference for tanginess. For the best balance, use about ½ cup of fresh lemon juice. Taste the soup as you go to ensure the lemon flavor is just right for your liking.
Can I Freeze Avgolemono Soup?
While you can freeze Avgolemono, it’s important to note that the texture may change slightly once thawed due to the eggs. To freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, do so slowly to avoid curdling the eggs.
Can I Use Orzo Instead of Rice?
Yes, orzo is a great alternative to rice in Greek Lemon Rice Soup Recipe (Avgolemono). It absorbs the flavors of the broth and creates a similar comforting texture. Simply substitute the rice with an equal amount of orzo, and adjust the cooking time as needed. The orzo will soak up the rich chicken broth just like rice, making it a delicious and satisfying variation of your Greek Lemon Rice Soup for
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