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Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

5.3 from 10 reviews

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting bowl bursting with bright lemon flavor and tender chicken. Combining wholesome ingredients like shredded chicken, rice, and fresh dill in a silky lemon-egg broth, it offers a vibrant, nourishing meal perfect for any day you crave warmth with a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced (~150 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup (100 g) uncooked rice (or substitute orzo pasta for a traditional variation)
  • 2 cups (300 g) cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached chicken breast recommended)

Egg-Lemon Mixture

  • 2 large eggs
  • Juice of 2 lemons (about ½ cup or 120 ml)

Seasoning & Garnish

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Rice (or Orzo): Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is tender.
  3. Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture: While the rice cooks, whisk the eggs in a medium bowl until frothy. Gradually add the lemon juice, whisking constantly to combine thoroughly.
  4. Temper the Egg-Lemon Mixture: To prevent curdling, slowly ladle 1-2 cups of hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking continuously. Once tempered, slowly pour this mixture back into the soup pot while stirring steadily.
  5. Add Chicken and Season: Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through for about 5 minutes. Do not boil the soup after adding the egg mixture to maintain its creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh chopped dill, and serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.

Notes

  • Tempering the egg-lemon mixture is crucial to avoid curdled eggs and ensure a smooth, creamy soup.
  • Substituting orzo for rice provides a more traditional Mediterranean texture.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach your own chicken breasts for a fresher taste.
  • Do not boil the soup after adding the egg mixture to maintain the silky consistency.
  • Fresh dill adds a fragrant and authentic Mediterranean flavor as a garnish.

Nutrition

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