The bright, citrusy tang of lemon combined with the richness of slow-cooked chicken and the silky texture from the tempered eggs makes this Greek Lemon Chicken Soup a soul-warming classic. Known as Avgolemono, this traditional dish is a comforting bowl of Mediterranean flavor that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
It’s the perfect soup to serve when you want something soothing yet flavorful. Ideal for cold nights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a warm hug in a bowl. Made easily in a slow cooker, it lets you enjoy authentic Greek taste with minimal effort. Every spoonful delivers a creamy, velvety texture and a fresh, lemony zing that keeps you coming back for more.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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6 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup uncooked orzo
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3 large eggs
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1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 carrots, peeled and sliced
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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In a slow cooker, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
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Stir in the uncooked orzo. Cook on high for 20-30 minutes until the orzo is tender.
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In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Slowly whisk in the lemon juice.
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Temper the egg-lemon mixture by slowly adding a ladle of hot broth from the soup while continuously whisking. Repeat with a second ladle.
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Slowly stir the tempered mixture into the soup. Do not boil after adding the eggs to avoid curdling.
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Stir gently and cook for another 5-10 minutes on low heat.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 260 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Discover the Comforting Elegance of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
When it comes to classic comfort food with a Mediterranean twist, few dishes can match the timeless appeal of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup—better known as Avgolemono. This cherished Greek dish has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and nourishment to family tables for centuries. With a velvety texture, tangy lemon flavor, and rich chicken broth base, Avgolemono is more than just soup—it’s a bowl of cultural tradition, healing comfort, and simple elegance.
In this modern take on the classic, we prepare it in a slow cooker for maximum ease and flavor development, making it an ideal recipe for busy home cooks, meal preppers, or anyone looking to explore Mediterranean flavors without fuss.
What is Avgolemono?
Avgolemono (pronounced ahv-go-LEH-mo-no) is a traditional Greek sauce made from eggs and lemon juice, often used to thicken soups or stews. When paired with chicken and broth, it becomes a luxurious soup that’s both hearty and refreshing. The lemon brings brightness and a slight tang, while the eggs create a creamy texture—without needing any dairy.
This ancient recipe dates back to the Byzantine era and is thought to have originated from Sephardic Jewish cuisine before becoming a beloved staple in Greek households. Its simplicity, elegance, and flavor have helped it stand the test of time, evolving into many regional versions and modern adaptations, including the slow cooker method we’re sharing here.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor
Using a slow cooker means you can “set it and forget it.” Toss in the basic ingredients—chicken, broth, onions, garlic, and vegetables—and let the slow simmering bring out deep, savory flavors. By the time the orzo and the avgolemono mixture are added, the soup becomes an irresistible medley of comforting aromas and luxurious texture.
2. Nutritious and Wholesome
Avgolemono soup is naturally gluten-free (especially if you substitute orzo with rice) and packed with protein from lean chicken and eggs. The lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants, while the broth supports gut health and immunity. It’s the kind of meal that nourishes your body and soothes your soul.
3. Creamy Without the Cream
Thanks to the egg-lemon emulsion, this soup achieves a rich, creamy mouthfeel without any dairy. That makes it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding cream-based dishes. Plus, it has a lighter feel, which makes it perfect for spring or any time you crave a clean, fresh meal.
4. A Taste of Greece at Home
This dish transports you straight to a seaside taverna in Greece. It captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine—simple, fresh, and vibrant. Even if you’ve never made Greek food before, this slow cooker Avgolemono soup is an easy way to bring authentic international flavor into your kitchen.
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken: Lean and protein-rich, it makes the soup hearty while remaining light.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a citrusy brightness that wakes up the palate.
- Eggs: Emulsified into the broth, they give the soup its signature creaminess.
- Orzo: A rice-shaped pasta that thickens the soup slightly while adding texture.
- Onions, Carrots, Celery, Garlic: The aromatic base that infuses the broth with warmth and depth.
- Broth: A rich chicken broth enhances the savory backbone of the soup.
The Secret Is in the Tempering
One of the most important steps in making Avgolemono is tempering the egg-lemon mixture. This ensures a silky texture without curdling the eggs. To do this properly, you gradually add hot broth to the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Then, you slowly incorporate this tempered mix back into the soup. This creates the luxurious consistency that makes Avgolemono so unique and satisfying.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Low-Carb/Keto Version: Skip the orzo and add cauliflower rice or simply more vegetables.
- Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetable broth and substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans.
- Add Greens: A handful of spinach or kale stirred in at the end adds color and nutrients.
- More Herbs: Dill and parsley are traditional garnishes, but feel free to try oregano, thyme, or even mint for a twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing
This slow cooker Avgolemono soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeks. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture—avoid boiling after adding the egg-lemon mixture.
What to Serve With Avgolemono
While Avgolemono is often enjoyed on its own, you can elevate your meal with a few simple sides:
- A crusty slice of sourdough or garlic bread
- A Greek salad with tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and feta
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
- Pita bread and tzatziki dip for a Mediterranean feast
Why It’s a Reader Favorite
This recipe consistently wins over even the pickiest eaters. Its balance of bright citrus, savory chicken, and comforting broth appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, need a make-ahead lunch, or want to impress dinner guests with something unique and comforting—this soup delivers.
It’s also kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples. And because it’s slow-cooked, it’s practically foolproof, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to expand your soup repertoire or simply want to make something cozy, healthy, and deeply flavorful, Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is the answer. It’s one of those recipes that reminds us how just a few simple ingredients—when treated with care—can become something truly extraordinary.
Every spoonful tells a story. A story of family dinners, Mediterranean sunshine, and generations of home cooks passing down their love in the form of soup. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your own home too.
Conclusion
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is more than just a comforting bowl of soup—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean tradition and simple, wholesome ingredients. With its silky texture, vibrant lemon flavor, and slow-simmered depth, this dish brings warmth, nourishment, and elegance to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to explore new global flavors, need a cozy meal for a chilly evening, or want a nutritious option the whole family will enjoy, this slow cooker version delivers every time. Give it a try, and experience how one humble soup can instantly elevate your weeknight dinner into something truly special.