There’s something utterly comforting about diving into a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono). Picture this: tender chicken swimming in a sea of golden broth, kissed by the zest of fresh lemons and the aromatic embrace of herbs. slow cooker beef gyros As you inhale, the citrus notes dance playfully around your senses while the hearty essence of chicken whispers sweet nothings to your soul.
This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those dreary days when you need a little sunshine. I still remember the first time my grandmother made it for me on a rainy afternoon. As I slurped up that creamy goodness, it felt like she was wrapping me in her warmth, reminding me that everything would be okay. Whether you’re having friends over or just need a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress and comfort everyone who has the pleasure of tasting it.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing for more time to relax and enjoy.
- The bright flavors will leave your taste buds dancing with delight and craving more.
- With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, it’s sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner.
- Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; they become tender and juicy during cooking.
- Fresh Lemons: Choose ripe lemons for their zesty juice and fragrant peel; they bring brightness to the soup.
- Chicken Broth: A good quality low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Fresh Dill: Use fresh dill for its aromatic flavor; it complements the chicken beautifully.
- Long Grain Rice: This will soak up all those delightful flavors while adding heartiness to each bowl.
- Eggs: Essential for creating the creamy Avgolemono sauce that gives this soup its signature texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and pepper—this is where the flavor begins!
Step 2: Set Up Your Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, combine the chopped chicken with about six cups of chicken broth. Add in two cups of water if you want an extra brothy experience.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Accents
Squeeze the juice from two freshly zested lemons into the mixture and toss in some sprigs of fresh dill. The aroma alone will have you dreaming about summer!
Step 4: Let it Cook
Set your slow cooker on low and let it work its magic for about four hours. Meanwhile, resist every urge to peek—trust me; it’s worth it!
Step 5: Incorporate Rice
After four hours, stir in one cup of rinsed long-grain rice into the mix for that comforting heartiness we all crave. Let it cook for another hour until tender.
Step 6: Make Your Avgolemono Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together three eggs with half a cup of fresh lemon juice until frothy. Slowly ladle some hot soup broth into this mixture while whisking continuously it’s like giving your soup a luxurious spa treatment!
Finally, pour this back into your slow cooker while stirring gently this step transforms your humble soup into velvety Avgolemono.
Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra dill or lemon slices before serving for that touch of elegance.
Now that you know how to whip up this dreamy Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono), it’s time to get cooking! Gather your loved ones around the table because nothing warms hearts quite like homemade soup. Enjoy each spoonful as if you’re savoring memories wrapped in warmth and happiness!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade 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 to lock in those delicious juices, then directly cook your pasta while preparing the zesty lemon-infused sauce. This ensures everything comes together seamlessly for a fantastic meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional ingredients! Try adding spinach or kale for extra greens, or substitute rice for quinoa. Spice lovers could toss in some red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to preserve its creamy texture. For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for brightness; bottled juice lacks that zing.
- Always taste as you go adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Letting the soup sit develops deeper flavors, making every bowl even better!
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a taste myself! Their compliments made me realize I had stumbled upon something truly special.
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?
To prepare Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono), you will need chicken breasts, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and eggs. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley enhance the flavor. chicken and orzo pairing Additionally, you can add rice or orzo for a heartier texture. This soup combines zesty lemon and tender chicken to create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?
Cooking Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Always check that the chicken is cooked through before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for busy days when you want a delicious meal ready upon your return.
Can I make Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The soup’s flavors often deepen after sitting, making it even more enjoyable when reheated.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)?
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad. Consider serving it alongside rice pilaf for added texture and flavor. For a complete meal, include some roasted vegetables or a light appetizer like tzatziki with pita chips. These sides complement the soup’s tangy taste while enhancing your dining experience.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) :
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a delightful dish that balances fresh lemony flavors with tender chicken and hearty vegetables. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the ingredients to blend beautifully over several hours. With simple ingredients and preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals seeking comfort food that’s nutritious and satisfying. Greek-inspired shrimp dish Enjoy this warm bowl of goodness any day of the week for a wholesome meal that delights every palate!
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) is a comforting, creamy soup that combines tender chicken with vibrant lemon flavors and fragrant herbs. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, this dish warms both the heart and soul. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that brings everyone together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt and pepper.
- In the slow cooker, combine chicken, broth, lemon juice, and dill.
- Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Stir in rinsed rice; cook for an additional hour until rice is tender.
- Whisk eggs and remaining lemon juice; gradually add hot broth while whisking.
- Pour back into the slow cooker while stirring gently to create a creamy texture.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra dill or lemon slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, mix in spinach or kale. Substitute rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option. Adjust seasoning to your preference during cooking.
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