Greek Lemon Rice Soup: A Creamy Bowl of Mediterranean Comfort

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Greek Lemon Rice Soup. Whether you call it avgolemono soup, lemony rice soup Greek style, or simply authentic lemon rice soup, this Mediterranean classic delivers soul-soothing satisfaction with every bite. With its creamy lemon-egg base, tender rice, and rich broth, this traditional dish is a warm embrace in a bowl—perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a little sunshine in your spoon.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Greek households, loved for its simplicity, brightness, and nourishing qualities. I remember the first time I tasted it in a seaside taverna in Santorini—smooth, tangy, and deeply warming. It’s a recipe I’ve recreated countless times since, tweaking and testing until I landed on this foolproof, flavor-packed version.

Ready to unlock the secrets to this creamy chicken meatball soup’s cousin with a citrusy twist? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Rice Soup

• 🌿 Bursting with Bright Citrus Flavor: The lemony tang cuts through the richness for a balanced, refreshing finish.
• ⏱ Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu comfort cravings.
• 🐔 Protein-Packed with Chicken: Optional shredded chicken adds heartiness and satiety.
• 🥣 Creamy Without Any Dairy: Thanks to the egg-lemon emulsion, it’s naturally luscious and gluten-free.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like rice, broth, and eggs.
• 👩‍🍳 Beginner-Friendly: No fancy tools or techniques required—just a whisk and a ladle.
• 🧠 Boosts Brain & Gut Health: Lemon provides vitamin C, while eggs add choline and healthy fats.
• 🌍 A Taste of Greece at Home: Bring authentic Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen without a plane ticket.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this Greek Lemon Rice Soup and why each component matters.

🥣 Broth & Protein

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth – The soup’s base. Use homemade for best flavor or a good-quality boxed option.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional) – Adds protein and transforms it into a heartier meal.

🍚 Rice

• 1/2 cup short-grain white rice – Rinsed before cooking. Short grain gives a creamier finish compared to long grain or jasmine.

🍋 Egg-Lemon Mixture (Avgolemono)

• 3 large eggs – Whisked vigorously for the signature velvety texture.
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice – Use fresh lemons only! Bottled lemon juice lacks the same aroma and zing.

🧂 Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – For subtle heat and balance.
• 2 tablespoons chopped dill or parsley – Fresh herbs elevate both the aroma and presentation.

💡 Substitutions: Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or vegetable broth and tofu to make it vegetarian.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice Soup (Avgolemono Style)

Follow these steps to ensure a silky, perfectly tempered bowl of Greek Lemon Rice Soup.

1. Simmer the Broth and Cook the Rice

Bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil in a large saucepan. Add rinsed rice. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

2. Add the Shredded Chicken (Optional)

Stir in the cooked chicken and heat through for 2–3 minutes. Remove from direct heat.

3. Make the Avgolemono (Egg-Lemon Emulsion)

In a bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until frothy. This emulsification is key for that creamy texture.

4. Temper the Egg Mixture

Slowly ladle in 1 cup of the hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This gently raises the temperature without scrambling the eggs.

5. Incorporate the Egg Mixture

Gradually pour the tempered egg-lemon mix into the soup while stirring. Heat on low only—never boil. The soup should thicken slightly and become silky.

6. Season and Garnish

Add salt, pepper, and herbs. Serve immediately with extra herbs or lemon slices for flair.

Pro Tips from Greek Grandmas & Chefs

❓ Why do I have to temper the eggs?

Tempering slowly warms the eggs so they integrate without curdling. Pouring hot broth directly will scramble them.

❓ Can I use orzo or quinoa instead of rice?

Yes! Orzo makes it extra rich and pasta-like, while quinoa adds protein and keeps it gluten-free.

❓ Why not boil after adding eggs?

Boiling breaks the emulsion and leads to a grainy texture. Keep the heat very low after adding the egg-lemon mixture.

❓ How do I fix a broken soup?

If your avgolemono splits, try blending a portion of it to restore texture—or just start again with new eggs.

Best Ways to Serve

This Greek lemon chicken rice soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty bread or warm pita
• Feta-stuffed olives or Greek salad
• Light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

👉 Try it alongside Lemon Herb Greek Roasted Potatoes or Spinach Feta Pie for a full Mediterranean experience.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	215 kcal
Protein	14g
Carbs	18g
Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	2g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	600mg
Vitamin C	20% DV
Calcium	6% DV

💚 Naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and protein-rich—a great option for clean eaters.

Storage & Leftovers

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended due to the egg-lemon emulsion separating.
• Reheat: Gently over low heat, stirring constantly—do not boil.

Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to revive the creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—just swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the shredded chicken.

Q: What rice works best?

Short-grain or Arborio is best for creamy texture. Long grain works but won’t be as velvety.

Q: Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Try carrots, celery, or spinach added with the rice.

Q: Is this soup safe for kids?

Yes—mild and nourishing. Just ensure the eggs are fully tempered.

Q: Can I meal-prep this?

It’s best fresh, but you can store components separately and assemble before serving.

Variations to Try

• Creamy Greek Lemon Rice Soup: Add a splash of cream (not traditional).
• Keto Version: Use riced cauliflower and skip the chicken.
• Spicy Version: Stir in chili flakes or harissa paste.
• Vegan Avgolemono: Replace eggs with tahini and a cornstarch slurry for texture.
• Greek Island Style: Add garlic and scallions sautéed in olive oil for extra depth.

Conclusion & Social Call-to-Action

Whether you’re reminiscing about Greek holidays or simply craving a cozy dinner, Greek Lemon Rice Soup offers warmth, nourishment, and a citrusy hug in every spoonful. It’s a soup that brings people together—delicate enough for a light lunch, yet hearty enough for dinner.

Print