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Avgolemono Soup

A comforting Greek soup made with tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a luscious lemony broth.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender, about 1 hour.
  2. Cool and strain: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool on a plate. Strain the broth through a fine sieve back into the pot to remove any solids.
  3. Cook the rice: Add the rice to the clear broth and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces while the rice is cooking.
  5. Prepare the Avgolemono: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice. Gradually add a cup of hot broth to temper the eggs.
  6. Combine the mixtures: Slowly stir the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, whisking continuously for a smooth consistency.
  7. Finish and serve: Add the shredded chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

A whole chicken enriches the broth, but chicken parts can be used. Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor.