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Homemade Greek Lemon Soup with Chicken and Orzo recipe image

Greek Lemon Soup with Chicken and Orzo

A bright, comforting Greek-style lemon chicken soup with tender orzo and a silky egg-lemon (avgolemono) finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup orzo
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
  • kosher salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
  2. Add the orzo and boil until just tender, about 7 minutes (about 1–2 minutes less than package directions).
  3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color.
  4. Slowly drizzle 1 cup of the hot broth into the beaten yolks while whisking vigorously to temper them; the mixture should become warm but not scrambled.
  5. Reduce the saucepan heat to medium. Gradually whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
  6. Cook, stirring or whisking occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly to the consistency of heavy cream, about 5–7 minutes.
  7. Stir in the Meyer lemon juice, then add the shredded chicken and cook 1–2 minutes until heated through.
  8. Season to taste with kosher salt and black pepper, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Temper the eggs slowly to avoid curdling.
  • Use low-sodium broth to control salt level.
  • Do not let the soup boil after adding the egg mixture.