Greek Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Soup is one of those foods that just feel like a warm hug on a cold day. There’s something inherently comforting about a hot bowl of broth with tender chicken, noodles, and a blend of fresh herbs and spices. But when you add a Greek twist to the classic chicken noodle soup, you take it to an entirely new level. This Greek-inspired version combines Mediterranean ingredients like lemon, garlic, and oregano, giving it a fresh, bright flavor that is both vibrant and soothing. It’s the kind of soup that balances the richness of the chicken with the tang of lemon and the earthy notes of the herbs, all while being easy to make.

Perfect for cozy nights, dinner parties, or even a health-conscious meal, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? It’s versatile, flavorful, and easy to adjust to your tastes. Whether you like it extra lemony or with a bit more garlic, this recipe can be your canvas.

This Greek Chicken Noodle Soup recipe combines all the best elements of comfort food with the zest and brightness of Mediterranean flavors. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare it.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor. Here’s the full list:

For The Soup Base

Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless, skinless. Chicken breasts are a leaner option, while thighs offer a richer flavor and tender texture.
Carrots: Fresh and peeled, sliced thinly. Adds sweetness and texture.
Celery: Diced. Provides crunch and earthiness.
Onion: Chopped. A key aromatic to build the soup’s flavor.
Garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic gives a fragrant depth to the broth.
Chicken broth: Low-sodium, preferably homemade, for a more natural, rich flavor.
Egg noodles: Traditional choice for a comforting noodle texture. You can substitute with other pasta, like orzo, for a twist.
Olive oil: Extra virgin. Adds richness and smoothness.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed. The acid brings the soup to life with its fresh, zesty punch.
Lemon zest: For extra citrus aroma and flavor.
Oregano: Fresh or dried. A quintessential Mediterranean herb that adds that distinct flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish. Adds freshness and color.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make the soup, step-by-step, ensuring it’s perfect every time.

Prepare The Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside to cool.
Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Toss in the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the veggies start to soften.
Build The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits left from the chicken. Stir in the dried oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 15 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to tenderize and the flavors to meld.
Shred The Chicken
- While the broth simmers, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands. Add the chicken back into the soup pot.
Cook The Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the soup. Simmer for another 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender. If you’re using a different type of pasta, be sure to check the cooking time on the package.
Finish The Soup
- Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or more lemon if you prefer a punchier flavor.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy hot, with some crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Greek Chicken Noodle Soup brings its own unique contribution to the dish. Here’s a closer look at some of the key components:

Chicken: Chicken breasts are lean and mild, making them perfect for soups. They soak up the flavors of the broth without overpowering it. Thighs are darker and juicier, providing a richer flavor and slightly more fat, which can make the soup more luxurious.
Lemon: Lemon is the true star of Greek cuisine. It adds a bright, zesty kick that lifts the entire dish. The acidity balances the richness of the chicken and broth, making the soup feel fresh and light.
Oregano: This herb is one of the cornerstones of Mediterranean flavor. Whether fresh or dried, oregano infuses the soup with earthy, slightly peppery notes that pair perfectly with the lemon and chicken.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a silky, rich texture to the soup, and it’s the perfect base for sautéing your vegetables. It also gives the soup a Mediterranean authenticity, as it’s a staple in Greek cuisine.

Expert Tips

To elevate your Greek Chicken Noodle Soup game, here are some expert tips:

For a richer broth: Add a bit of chicken bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. Bone broth has a deeper flavor and is packed with nutrients that enhance the soup’s richness.
Use homemade chicken broth: If you have the time, making your own chicken broth really boosts the soup’s flavor. Plus, you can control the salt and other seasonings to your liking.
Herb variations: While oregano is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with a pinch of thyme or a bay leaf for extra depth.
Noodle choices: If you prefer a heartier option, consider adding whole-wheat noodles or even a gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
Boost the lemon: If you’re a big fan of lemon, don’t hesitate to add more juice and zest. It will brighten the flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how easily it can be modified to fit your tastes. Here are a few variations:

Add spinach or kale: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a healthy boost and a pop of color.
Use different noodles: If you’re not into egg noodles, try orzo, ditalini, or even rice for a fun twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make it a Greek chicken soup salad: After making the soup, allow it to cool down and add some chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a refreshing, salad-like version.
Spicy variation: If you enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili to the broth for a little kick.

Final Words

This Greek Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, comfort, and simplicity. It’s not just a soup; it’s an experience in every bowl. Whether you’re nourishing your body on a chilly day or looking for a hearty dish to serve at a family gathering, this soup has you covered. It’s packed with healthy ingredients but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce a bit of Greek cuisine into your regular rotation of meals.

Greek Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe