Description
A classic Greek-inspired chicken soup featuring tender shredded chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a vibrant lemon and egg sauce. This comforting and nourishing avgolemono soup is full of bright Mediterranean flavors and a silky texture, perfect for a warming meal.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup orzo
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Avgolemono Sauce
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until fully cooked and tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the broth and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and minced garlic to the broth. Simmer gently until the orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Avgolemono Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until fully combined and frothy.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly ladle about 1 cup of hot broth from the soup into the egg and lemon mixture while whisking continuously to avoid curdling.
- Incorporate the Sauce: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the soup, stirring gently. Heat the soup gently without boiling to allow it to thicken and become silky in texture.
- Season and Garnish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Temper the eggs carefully by gradually adding hot broth to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the bright, fresh flavor of the soup.
- Serve the soup immediately to enjoy the silky texture of the avgolemono sauce before it thickens too much or separates.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo pasta or substitute with rice or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek