Introduction

Greek lemon chicken, or Kotosoupa, is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of Greece, with its tangy lemon and tender chicken, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. In this article, we will explore three diverse examples of cooking Greek lemon chicken step by step, ensuring you feel confident in preparing this delightful dish.

Example 1: Classic Kotosoupa

This classic version of Kotosoupa is perfect for a cozy family meal. It’s simple, yet packed with flavor and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Start by gathering your ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), 8 cups of water, 2 medium onions (chopped), 2 carrots (sliced), 2 celery stalks (sliced), 1 cup of rice, juice of 2 lemons, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. In a large pot, add the whole chicken and cover it with 8 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2. Skim any foam that forms on the surface and add the onions, carrots, and celery. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot, allowing it to cool slightly. Once cool, shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones.
4. Return the broth to a gentle boil, adding the rice. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the shredded chicken, and then add the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes: You can add some fresh dill or oregano for an extra burst of flavor. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can also mix in an egg-lemon sauce (avgolemono) by whisking together 2 eggs and the juice of 1 lemon, and then tempering it with some hot soup before adding it back into the pot.

Example 2: Kotosoupa with Orzo

This variation incorporates orzo pasta for a heartier dish, making it ideal for a filling lunch or dinner.

For this recipe, you will need: 1 whole chicken, 8 cups of water, 1 onion (chopped), 2 carrots (diced), 1 cup of orzo, juice of 2 lemons, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add the whole chicken. Let it simmer for about 1 hour.
2. As the chicken cooks, add the chopped onion and diced carrots to the pot.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it and shred the meat, discarding the bones and skin.
4. Return the broth to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
5. After the orzo is cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot, along with the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley.

Notes: For a slightly different flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron or a handful of spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the taste but adds vibrant color to your dish.

Example 3: Mediterranean Kotosoupa with Vegetables

This version is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, making it healthy and colorful.

Ingredients include: 1 whole chicken, 8 cups of water, 1 onion (chopped), 2 carrots (sliced), 1 zucchini (diced), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 cup of rice, juice of 2 lemons, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. In a large pot, place the chicken and cover it with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil then lower the heat to a simmer.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper to the pot. Let everything simmer for about 1 hour until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken and allow it to cool. Once cool, shred the meat, removing the skin and bones.
4. Add the rice to the pot and cook according to package instructions, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Notes: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach, peas, or even artichokes work wonderfully in this soup. For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving.

Now you have three diverse examples of cooking Greek lemon chicken (Kotosoupa) step by step! Enjoy experimenting with these flavors and making this traditional dish your own.