Greek-Style Lemon, Rice & Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
A heartwarming Greek-style soup combining the tangy flavor of lemon with the comforting texture of rice and the nourishment of chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large onion, finely minced
- 1 celery stalk, finely minced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- Chopped fresh dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then rub the mixture all over the chicken.
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, turning once, until it is golden on the bottom, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and cook the chicken until done, about another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring, until they soften and the rice absorbs the flavors, about 5 minutes more.
- Add the chicken broth and salt, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Stir in the rice and simmer until the rice is cooked and the soup thickens, about 15 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, whisk the eggs and lemon juice in a medium bowl until frothy. Temper the egg mixture with the hot soup, adding slowly and stirring. Return the tempered egg mixture to the pot and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to heat through.
- Stir in the fresh oregano, taste for seasoning, and garnish with fresh dill before serving.