Weight Watchers Avgolemono Soup

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The Weight Watchers Avgolemono Soup is a diet version of the more traditional Greek soup containing chicken, rice, lemon, and eggs. It is traditionally rich and velvety in texture; however, it can also be high in calories due to the combination of egg and rice. This low-fat adaptation maintains the ease and tart freshness of the original while fitting into your Weight Watchers plan. It is cooked with simple ingredients such as chicken breasts, broth, eggs, lemon juice, and a pinch of rice. The result is a wholesome meal that feels and tastes like comfort food but without the cost of lots of points. It makes a wonderful weeknight dinner and is especially great in cold weather or when you’re in the mood for something comforting and refreshing.

STATS

  • Diet: Weight Watchers friendly
  • Course: Main dish, soup
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cuisine: Greek-inspired
  • Cooking time: 25 minutes
  • Serving size: 1 bowl
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Total time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking method: Stovetop

EQUIPMENT

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Ladle
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup raw white rice
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

INGREDIENT NOTES

Chicken breasts:

  • A lean source of protein that keeps the soup filling but low in fat. Poach them in broth to add flavor, then shred for tenderness.

Chicken broth:

  • Using low-sodium broth lets you control the salt. Homemade broth gives more flavor, but store-bought works fine.

Rice:

  • Short-grain rice is traditional in Avgolemono. A small amount makes the soup thick and hearty. You can also replace it with cauliflower rice for fewer points.

Eggs:

  • The eggs are whipped to make the soup creamy without using cream. Temper them slowly to avoid scrambling.

Lemon juice:

  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential. It brightens the soup and balances the richness of the eggs.

Olive oil:

  • A teaspoon adds smoothness and flavor without being too heavy.

Parsley:

  • Adds freshness, flavor, and color at the end.

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  3. Remove the chicken and shred it.
  4. Add the rice to the broth and cook for about 12 minutes, until tender.
  5. In a bowl, beat the eggs.
  6. Slowly add the lemon juice to the eggs and mix until combined.
  7. Whisk in a small amount of hot broth into the egg mixture to temper it, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
  8. Gradually add more broth to the egg mixture until warmed.
  9. Pour the egg mixture back into the pot and stir gently.
  10. Keep the heat low and do not boil, or the eggs will separate.
  11. Stir in the shredded chicken, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  12. Let the soup heat through for 2–3 minutes.
  13. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving.

TIPS

  • Avoid boiling the soup after adding the eggs to keep it creamy.
  • Add more lemon juice if you want a sharper flavor.
  • Store the egg and lemon mixture separately if reheating.
  • Chop the chicken into small pieces so it blends well in the soup.

STORAGE

Refrigerate:

  • Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat slowly on the stove over low heat. Add the egg mixture while reheating, but don’t let it boil.

Freeze:

  • Not recommended. The egg base may separate once thawed.

FAQ

Can I substitute orzo for rice?

  • Yes. Orzo is common in Greek cooking and works well, but check how it affects the points.

What causes the eggs to scramble?

  • If the broth is too hot or added too quickly, the eggs can scramble. Always whisk slowly and temper gradually.

Is this soup filling enough for dinner?

  • Yes. It includes protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Add a side salad for a complete meal.

NUTRITION (per serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Fat: 7 g
Vitamin C: 25% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
Iron: 10% DV
The Avgolemono Weight Watchers Soup Recipe is 4 points per 1 serving.