There's something incredibly soothing about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it combines the bright flavors of lemon and tender chicken. One chilly afternoon, while wrestling with the never-ending monotony of takeout menus, I decided to whip up a comforting dish that not only warmed my soul but also revitalized my dinner routine. Enter Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup—a recipe that has quickly become my go-to for those evenings when I crave something delicious yet easy to prepare.
Imagine the aroma of lemon mingling with savory chicken and fresh veggies wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone in the house to gather around the table. Not only does this soup come together in just an hour, but it also offers a wonderful balance of creamy texture and zesty flavor that leaves both your palate and your heart satisfied. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook tired of fast food, this dish promises to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that makes any chilly evening feel like a warm embrace!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- This Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- The vibrant flavors of lemon and tender chicken create a delicious harmony that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its creamy texture makes it a comforting bowl of goodness that appeals to both young and old, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Plus, with its beautiful presentation garnished with lemon slices, this soup is sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.<br />
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Chicken broth – 8 cups for a rich and savory foundation.
- Lemon juice – ½ cup freshly squeezed to brighten up the flavors.
- Shredded carrot – ½ cup adds sweetness and color to the soup.
- Diced onion – ½ cup brings aromatic depth and warmth.
- Minced celery – ½ cup enhances the vegetable medley with crispness.
- Chicken soup base – 6 tablespoons concentrated flavor booster for richness.
- Ground white pepper – ¼ teaspoon gives a mild kick without overpowering.
For the Creamy Mixture
- Margarine – ¼ cup adds creaminess while keeping it lighter.
- All-purpose flour – ¼ cup thickens the soup perfectly without lumps.
For the Enrichment
- Egg yolks – 8 for a luscious, creamy texture that makes it cozy.
- Cooked white rice – 1 cup absorbs flavors and adds substance.
- Diced cooked chicken – 1 cup brings protein and heartiness to the dish.
For Garnish
- Lemon slices – 16 to brighten and enhance the presentation of your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
How to Make Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, shredded carrot, diced onion, minced celery, chicken soup base, and ground white pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the veggies are soft and flavorful.
-
Make the Roux: In a separate bowl, blend the margarine and flour into a smooth paste. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup, cooking for another 8–10 minutes until it thickens slightly, achieving that creamy consistency.
-
Temper the Egg Yolks: Beat the egg yolks until they turn light in color. Slowly mix in a few ladles of the hot soup while whisking. This process helps to temper the yolks, preventing them from curdling when added to the pot.
-
Incorporate Yolk Mixture: Gently stir the tempered egg yolks back into the soup pot. Keep the heat low to maintain a warm soup without boiling, which will ensure a lovely creamy texture.
-
Add Rice and Chicken: Finally, add in the cooked white rice and diced cooked chicken. Cook just until everything is heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices for an extra burst of brightness.
Optional: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand while freezing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat. Stir occasionally and add a bit of chicken broth if needed to smooth out the texture.
Notes: For best taste, avoid freezing with garnishes; add lemon slices fresh when serving your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup.
Make Ahead Options
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (broth, lemon juice, carrots, onion, celery, soup base, and white pepper) up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate it in an airtight container. For optimal flavor, blend the margarine and flour to make the roux and store it separately until you’re ready to finish. When you’re set to serve, simply reheat the base, add the roux, and then temper the egg yolks before stirring them back in for that luscious creaminess. This way, you'll enjoy a delightful bowl of soup just as delicious as if you had made it fresh!
What to Serve with Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
There's nothing quite like a heartwarming soup to create a cozy meal moment, especially when it's bursting with zesty lemon flavors and tender chicken.
- Warm Bread Rolls: These fluffy delights are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy soup.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing medley of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese adds a vibrant, crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa: The nutty flavors and bright herbs complement the lemony richness, enhancing every bite.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Smoky and charred veggies bring a taste of summer that beautifully balances the soup's creamy texture.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these flavorful bites offer a comforting, hearty addition to the meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio lightens the meal while echoing the lemony notes.
- Sliced Avocado: The creamy, rich flavor of avocado adds a new dimension, perfect for topping on fresh bread or enjoying on its own.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light, fruity dessert like lemon or raspberry provides a refreshing finish to a rich meal, keeping the lemon theme alive.
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this warm and inviting soup, as there are so many delightful twists you can explore!
-
Herb-Infused: Add a handful of fresh thyme or dill for an aromatic boost that complements the lemon beautifully. Fresh herbs can transform the flavor and add vibrancy to each spoonful.
-
Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat that will awaken your taste buds. This little addition can bring a whole new level of warmth to your soup!
-
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option. You’ll still enjoy the creamy texture while making it plant-based.
-
Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of margarine for a tropical twist that adds richness without dairy. This will lend a subtle sweetness while keeping every bite wonderfully creamy.
-
Quinoa Swap: Switch out the white rice for quinoa to give your soup a nutty flavor and extra texture, plus a protein boost! This adds an interesting chewiness that complements the soup’s smoothness.
-
Lemon Zest Upgrade: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest along with the juice for an even brighter lemon flavor that resonates beautifully through the soup. Zesty notes will elevate the dish to new heights!
-
Smoky Flair: Incorporate some smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness that pairs exquisitely with the creamy backdrop of the soup. The smoky aroma will create depth and intrigue in each bowl.
-
Cream Cheese: For an even creamier texture, blend in a few tablespoons of cream cheese along with the roux. This adds velvety richness that takes comfort food to the next level!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- To avoid lumps in your roux, make sure to blend the margarine and flour thoroughly before adding to the soup.
- When tempering the egg yolks, add the hot soup gradually and whisk continuously to prevent curdling.
- Keep the soup on low heat after adding the yolks to maintain a creamy consistency without boiling.
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of lemon should I use for the soup?
I always recommend using fresh, juicy lemons for the best flavor in your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Look for lemons that feel heavy for their size and have a bright yellow skin without any dark spots or blemishes, as these indicate ripeness.
How long can I store leftover soup in the fridge?
You can store your leftover Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture!
Can I freeze Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top since it will expand. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat, stirring occasionally. If the texture seems thick upon reheating, simply add a bit of chicken broth for creaminess.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup becomes too thick after cooking or reheating, don't worry! Simply add a little more chicken broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat it gently to combine.
Is this soup safe for people with egg allergies?
Unfortunately, this Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup contains egg yolks, which are essential for the creamy texture. If you're looking for an egg-free alternative, I suggest using a dairy-based cream or a silken tofu blend as a substitute for the egg yolks, whisking until smooth before adding it to the soup near the end of cooking.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make your Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a bit of cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup to ensure a smooth texture.
Creamy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, shredded carrot, diced onion, minced celery, chicken soup base, and ground white pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the veggies are soft and flavorful.
- In a separate bowl, blend the margarine and flour into a smooth paste. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup, cooking for another 8–10 minutes until it thickens slightly, achieving that creamy consistency.
- Beat the egg yolks until they turn light in color. Slowly mix in a few ladles of the hot soup while whisking. This process helps to temper the yolks, preventing them from curdling when added to the pot.
- Gently stir the tempered egg yolks back into the soup pot. Keep the heat low to maintain a warm soup without boiling, which will ensure a lovely creamy texture.
- Finally, add in the cooked white rice and diced cooked chicken. Cook just until everything is heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices for an extra burst of brightness.
Leave a Reply