If you’re in the mood for something cozy, comforting, and just a little bit bright and zesty, this Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is calling your name. It’s like a hug in a bowl—warm, satisfying, and filled with layers of flavor that make every bite feel like home. And the best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work while you kick back and let those incredible aromas fill your kitchen. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll want it on repeat all season long.
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Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Versatile: Perfect for chilly nights, meal prep lunches, or even when you’re feeling under the weather and need something nourishing and soothing. It’s light yet filling, and always hits the spot.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients, but tastes like something you’d order at a charming Mediterranean café.
- Quick and Easy (thanks to the slow cooker): Toss it all in, set it, forget it, and let the magic happen. Minimal effort, maximum comfort.
- Customizable: Want it creamier? Add an egg-lemon avgolemono finish. Prefer it heartier? Stir in orzo, rice, or even quinoa. It’s easy to tweak to your taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s cozy enough for a quiet night in but impressive enough to serve guests. The lemony zing gives it a unique twist that keeps people coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this soul-warming, Mediterranean-inspired soup:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: These become tender and juicy as they simmer away in the broth, soaking up all the lemony goodness.
- Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup—rich and savory, perfect for carrying all the flavors.
- Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color. They soften beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Celery: Classic soup base veggie that gives a lovely savory backbone to the broth.
- Onion: Sweet and aromatic, onion brings depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- Lemon Juice + Zest: The star of the show! It gives the soup its signature bright, tangy flavor that wakes everything up.
- Fresh Dill or Parsley: Herbs bring that final fresh burst—don’t skip this step.
- Orzo (Optional): Add near the end for a heartier twist. It’s a fun addition that turns this soup into a complete meal.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s bring this bright and cozy bowl to life:
- Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating required for a slow cooker, which is why we love it! Just grab your slow cooker and get it ready for the magic.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Give it all a gentle stir to combine.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The long, slow simmering brings out deep, rich flavors.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the pot and give everything a good stir.
- Add Orzo (Optional): If using, stir in the orzo during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking until it’s tender.
- Finishing Touches: Right before serving, stir in the fresh herbs. Taste and adjust lemon, salt, and pepper if needed. Don’t be shy with that lemon—it’s what makes the soup sing!
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge, and serve it up warm. Cozy perfection!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
This soup is already a standout, but here are a few simple ways to make it shine even more:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread (or pita!) is perfect for dipping and soaking up all that lemony broth.
- Greek Salad: Pair it with a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Toppings: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, or a sprinkle of feta if you want to lean into that Greek flavor even more.
- As a Starter: Serve it in small bowls before a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Additional Tips
Want to make the most of this comforting recipe? Here are a few tips:
- Use Fresh Lemon: Bottled juice won’t give you that bright, fresh flavor—fresh is key!
- Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just dump everything in and go.
- Adjust Texture: If you like a thicker soup, mash a few of the cooked carrots and stir them back in. For a thinner version, just add a splash more broth or water.
- Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! Just leave out the orzo if you plan to freeze, and add it fresh when you reheat.
- Make It Creamier: Try an avgolemono twist—whisk together egg and lemon, then slowly add a ladle of hot broth while whisking constantly. Stir the mixture back into the pot at the end.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A1: Yes, just add it in during the last 30 minutes so it warms through without overcooking.
Q2: Can I add rice instead of orzo?
A2: Absolutely! Add cooked rice toward the end, or uncooked rice early on—just make sure it doesn’t absorb too much broth.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze without the orzo for best results.
Q5: What if I want it more lemony?
A5: Taste and add more fresh lemon juice right before serving. Lemon flavor can mellow as it cooks, so it’s okay to give it a little extra zing.
Q6: Can I make this vegetarian?
A6: Sure! Use vegetable broth and swap the chicken for canned chickpeas or white beans for protein.
Q7: What’s the best herb to use?
A7: Fresh dill adds a traditional Greek touch, but parsley or even thyme works beautifully too.
Q8: Is this soup gluten-free?
A8: Yes, if you skip the orzo or use a gluten-free pasta or rice.
Q9: Can I add spinach or kale?
A9: Definitely! Stir in chopped spinach or kale in the last 10–15 minutes until wilted.
Q10: How can I make this spicier?
A10: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking for a gentle kick.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—bright, nourishing, and deeply satisfying. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to share. Whether you’re chasing away a cold, warming up on a rainy day, or just craving a bowl of sunshine, this one’s a keeper. So grab your slow cooker, a few fresh lemons, and let’s make magic!
Print
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli is a healthy, quick dinner packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknights, this easy recipe is high in protein, low in carbs, and loaded with zesty lemon and garlicky goodness. Pairing juicy grilled chicken with crispy roasted broccoli makes for a satisfying clean-eating meal.
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
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While broccoli is roasting, season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
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Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
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Serve hot with roasted broccoli.
Notes
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Swap broccoli for cauliflower or green beans if preferred.
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Add a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast + broccoli
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg