Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that wraps you in a warm, citrusy embrace. Imagine the aroma of lemon zest mingling with tender chicken and fresh herbs, dancing through your kitchen like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. This soup is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.

I remember my first attempt at making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup—let’s just say it was a comedy of errors. Picture me frantically searching for the elusive ingredient list while trying to avoid my cat, who thought my legs were the perfect launchpad for her acrobatics. But once I got into the groove, I found that this soup is not only delicious but also an experience to savor. The best part? It’s ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising an explosion of flavors that will make even your taste buds do a happy dance.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its refreshing flavor profile brings bright notes of lemon combined with hearty chicken, creating comfort in every spoonful
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, this soup is as stunning as it is tasty
- It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course, making it suitable for any occasion
Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For best results, use 3-4 fresh chicken breasts; they cook quickly and soak up all the incredible flavors.
- Fresh Garlic: Use about 3-4 cloves of firm garlic; fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile significantly.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness without compromising on taste.
- Fresh Lemons: You’ll want at least two lemons – one for juice and one for zest; their brightness makes this soup sing!
- Dill: Fresh dill adds that signature Mediterranean flair that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece.
- Carrots and Celery: These aromatic vegetables add depth and sweetness to the broth—don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and blend seamlessly into your soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and sauté diced carrots and celery until they soften—about five minutes should do the trick.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add your diced chicken breast to the pot. Stir occasionally until they’re golden brown on all sides – about seven minutes works wonders!
Step 4: Add Broth & Flavor
Pour in your low-sodium chicken broth along with minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—you’ll love how your kitchen smells right about now.
Step 5: Season with Herbs
Stir in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper according to taste. Let it simmer together for another ten minutes so all those flavors can party together!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill if you’re feeling fancy. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for an additional crunch!
So there you have it—a simple yet scrumptious recipe that brings warmth and joy with every spoonful! Enjoy this delightful bowl of goodness that feels like home.
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek Lemon Chicken Soup offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it’s cooking, chop your veggies and prepare the broth. Once the chicken is done, add everything to a pot and let it simmer. This method ensures tender chicken and rich flavors in every spoonful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with herbs like dill or cilantro, and add a splash of lemon juice at the end for extra brightness. Personalize it to suit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm over low heat on the stove while adding a dash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in your Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before searing for an even cook
- Don’t skip the simmering step; it’s essential for building flavor and tenderness
Sometimes, I whip up this soup when I need comfort food, and my friends always rave about how it warms them right up—truly a hug in a bowl!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
To prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, you will need chicken breast or thighs, fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, rice or orzo, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Optional ingredients include egg yolks for creaminess and spices like salt and pepper to taste. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously tangy and comforting soup that embodies the flavors of Greece.
How long does it take to make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup?
The total time to make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30-40 minutes for cooking. Using pre-cooked chicken can significantly reduce the time needed. Make sure to allow the flavors to meld by letting the soup simmer properly for optimal taste.
Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Soup in advance. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop further. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the rice or orzo before freezing, as they can become mushy when reheated later.
Is Greek Lemon Chicken Soup healthy?
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a nutritious option loaded with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from vegetables. The use of lemon adds a good dose of vitamin C while enhancing flavor without extra calories. You can also customize this soup by adding more veggies or whole grains to increase its health benefits even further.
Conclusion for Greek Lemon Chicken Soup :
In conclusion, making Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is an enjoyable process that results in a hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Key ingredients such as fresh lemon juice and tender chicken create a delightful balance that is both comforting and invigorating. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a nourishing meal any time of year, this soup offers a taste of Greece right at your kitchen table. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be glad you did!

Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people 1x
Description
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is a comforting and revitalizing dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs. This delightful soup is ideal for chilly nights or family gatherings, offering a refreshing burst of Mediterranean flavor in every spoonful. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring warmth and joy in each bowl.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 large lemons (juiced and zested)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced carrots and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 7 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken broth along with minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra dill if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg