Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe

Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup uncooked rice or orzo pasta; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste

by Manar Jota

September 20, 2025

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Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup has a way of warming you from the inside out, and its zesty, comforting flavor is pure magic. I remember the first time I tried a true Avgolemono soup; the creamy texture and bright lemon notes were unforgettable. This recipe captures that essence, bringing the vibrant heart of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly evening, offering tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and a delightful tang that will have you coming back for more. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

It offers a wonderfully comforting and zesty taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
This is a truly easy Mediterranean chicken soup, ready in under an hour.
Packed with tender chicken and bright lemon, it’s incredibly satisfying.
It’s a healthy Mediterranean chicken soup that feels indulgent without being heavy.
The creamy texture from the tempered eggs is simply divine.
It’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
This soup is wonderfully versatile and can be customized to your liking.
The aroma alone will draw everyone to the table!

Ingredients for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly flavorful chicken soup with lemon and herbs:

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 large onion, chopped – about 1 cup, forms the soup’s aromatic base
2 carrots, chopped – adds sweetness and color
2 celery stalks, chopped – contributes to the classic mirepoix flavor
8 cups chicken broth – the soul of the soup
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – for tender, shredded chicken
1/2 cup uncooked rice or orzo pasta – choose your favorite for texture
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – essential for that signature zesty kick
2 large eggs, lightly beaten – to create a wonderfully creamy texture
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of freshness and color
Salt and black pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors

The fresh lemon juice is key to that bright, tangy flavor, while the eggs, tempered carefully, create a luscious, creamy finish that makes this soup so special.

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How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Learning how to make Mediterranean lemon chicken soup is easier than you think, and this recipe guides you through every step to achieve that perfect Avgolemono flavor. It’s truly a simple lemon chicken soup Mediterranean style that’s both comforting and bright.

Step 1: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 large onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, and 2 celery stalks, chopped. Sauté these vegetables until they start to soften and become fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Pour in the 8 cups chicken broth and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Carefully add the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Let them cook through in the simmering broth, typically 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 3: Stir in the 1/2 cup uncooked rice or orzo pasta. Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the flavorful broth.
Step 4: While the pasta cooks, prepare the tempering mixture. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and the 2 large eggs, lightly beaten. It’s crucial to temper the eggs slowly to prevent them from scrambling. Gradually ladle about 1 cup of the hot broth from the pot into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
Step 5: Once the egg mixture is tempered, slowly and steadily pour it back into the main pot of soup, stirring constantly. This step is key to achieving a creamy, velvety texture without the eggs curdling. Remember, do not let the soup boil after adding the egg mixture.
Step 6: Stir in the 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a lovely burst of freshness and color. Season the soup generously with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
Step 7: Serve your delicious Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup hot, garnished with extra parsley if you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

I’ve made this soup countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Try a few of these and see the difference!

Always use good quality chicken broth; it makes a huge difference in the overall flavor of your soup.
When tempering the eggs, go slow and whisk constantly. This is the key to that smooth, creamy texture without any scrambled bits.
Don’t be afraid to adjust the lemon juice. Taste and add more if you prefer a tangier soup.
For an even richer flavor, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken.

What’s the secret to perfect Avgolemono soup?

The secret to a truly authentic Mediterranean lemon chicken soup lies in the tempering process. Slowly whisking hot broth into the egg and lemon mixture before adding it back to the pot is crucial. This gently cooks the eggs, creating that signature silky smoothness. For more authentic Mediterranean flavors, explore other Mediterranean recipes.

Can I make Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the egg-lemon mixture. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and temper the eggs just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

The biggest mistake is letting the soup boil after adding the egg mixture, which causes curdled eggs. Also, ensure you season generously with salt and pepper; the flavors need a boost to shine through. A bland soup is a sad soup!

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

This vibrant soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of simple sides. For a truly traditional experience, serve it as you might a classic Greek lemon chicken soup, alongside some warm, crusty bread for dipping into that flavorful broth. I love to have a good sourdough or a piece of toasted pita bread on hand. If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors, you might also like our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros.

A light, fresh salad makes another fantastic accompaniment, offering a crisp contrast to the soup’s creamy texture. Think a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette, or even just some peppery arugula. It’s a meal that feels both hearty and refreshingly light. For another hearty option, consider our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

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Nutrition Facts for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delightful soup:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can refer to resources like the Eatwell Guide.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

Properly storing and reheating this delicious soup ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors later. To keep this easy Mediterranean chicken soup fresh, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. In the refrigerator, it will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Freeze the soup in portion-sized, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Be very careful not to let it boil after reheating, especially if it contains the egg mixture, to prevent curdling. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup

What are some easy variations for Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup?

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the vegetables. If you want a richer soup, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the very end. You can also swap the rice for couscous or even small pasta shapes for a different texture, making it a truly flavorful lemon chicken soup. If you enjoy flavorful chicken dishes, check out our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

Can I substitute the chicken in this soup?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is traditional, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or white beans instead of chicken, and vegetable broth. Just ensure your broth is good quality for the best taste.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of this soup?

Once cooled, store any leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to meld and deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day! Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

How do I make sure the eggs don’t curdle in the soup?

The key is tempering! Always whisk the eggs and lemon juice together first. Then, very gradually, ladle hot broth into this mixture while whisking constantly. This slowly raises the temperature of the eggs. Once tempered, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the main pot of soup while stirring continuously. Crucially, never let the soup boil after adding the tempered egg mixture.

Variations of Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! There are so many ways to adapt this soup to your liking. For a completely different experience, try making it dairy-free by omitting the eggs and using a cornstarch slurry with a splash of extra lemon juice for thickening. This still gives you a wonderfully bright and tangy chicken soup Mediterranean style. For another comforting chicken dish, explore our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.

If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider adding more vegetables like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for cannellini beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. You can also play with the herbs – fresh dill or mint can offer a delightful twist on the classic parsley.