Go Back
+ servings
Greek Lemon Soup with Chicken and Orzo in a white bowl with lemon and parsley on the side.
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Greek Orzo Soup

A citrusy, light and warming Greek Lemon Soup with Chicken and Orzo (Avgolemono) Quick and simple recipe with just 10 ingredients.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Pasta, Soup
Cuisine: Greek
Servings: 4
Calories: 501kcal
Author: Helen

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion
  • 4 garlic
  • 2 sticks celery
  • 1 large carrot
  • 4 cups chicken stock (Note 1)
  • 2 cups lamb/beef stock optional (Note 2)
  • 1 cup orzo (Note 3)
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 lemon
  • 2 cups shredded chicken (Note 4)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley optional

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
  • Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
  • Add the garlic, celery, and carrot and cook for a few more minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken and lamb/beef stock. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the orzo to the simmering broth. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Gradually whisk in the juice of 3 lemons.
  • Slowly ladle 1–2 cups of the hot broth into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken. Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes before serving. Top with fresh parsley if using.

Notes

  1. Chicken stock: The recipe has been tested with store-bought chicken stock but you can use homemade if you prefer.
  2. Lamb or beef stock: Optional but recommended for extra umami flavor.
  3. Orzo: You can use rice instead.
  4. Chicken: Shredded cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but roasted or poached works too.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 501kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 182mg | Sodium: 477mg | Potassium: 815mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 3330IU | Vitamin C: 48mg | Calcium: 89mg | Iron: 3mg