Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a classic and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant lemon, and a rich, velvety broth. This traditional Greek soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a soothing meal when you need a bit of comfort. The unique blend of flavors from the lemon juice and creamy egg mixture creates a deliciously tangy and creamy soup that will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1/2 cup rice (or orzo)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Method:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken breast and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the olive oil and sauté the diced carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Rice: Add the rice (or orzo) to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until well combined. Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot broth from the pot into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
5. Finish the Soup: Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and heat through, but do not let the soup boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread.

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Its creamy, lemony flavor makes it a refreshing yet comforting meal for any day of the week.