Chicken Lentil Soup

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Chicken Lentil Soup.

Packed with tender chicken, nutrient-rich lentils, and an array of fresh vegetables, this soup is a wholesome and delicious meal.

It’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Filling: The combination of protein-packed chicken and fiber-rich lentils keeps you full for hours.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious homemade soup on the table in under an hour.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices, swap the protein, or add extra vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs add more flavor and tenderness, but breasts are a leaner option.
• Lentils – Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape well while cooking. Red lentils can be used for a softer texture.
• Vegetables – Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery add depth of flavor and essential nutrients.
• Broth – Chicken broth enhances the taste, but vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Coconut Milk (optional) – Adds a creamy touch to the soup. Can be replaced with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.

Spices & Seasonings:

• Cumin & Turmeric – These spices provide warmth and a subtle earthiness.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
• Cayenne (optional) – If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne.
• Garam Masala or Coriander (optional) – A great addition if you want to experiment with bolder flavors.

How to Make Chicken Lentil Soup

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
• Total Time: Under 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, followed by 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to soften the vegetables and enhance their natural sweetness.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add 1 lb of diced chicken (breasts or thighs) to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken is no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). This step builds a rich flavor foundation.

3. Add the Lentils & Spices

Mix in 1 cup of rinsed lentils, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon turmeric, and 6 cups of chicken broth. Stir well, then bring the soup to a boil.

4. Let It Simmer

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the lentils cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful flavors.

5. Add Coconut Milk (Optional)

For a creamy texture, stir in 1 cup of coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking. If you prefer a lighter broth-based soup, feel free to skip this step.

6. Season & Add Final Touches

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For a bright, fresh flavor, squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Common Questions & Variations

Can I Use Canned Lentils?

Yes! If you’re short on time, use canned lentils. Simply drain, rinse, and add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

What Can I Use Instead of Chicken?

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas. Swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully plant-based meal.

How to Store & Reheat?

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, kale, bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to boost nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread – A warm loaf of bread is perfect for dipping.
• Over Rice or Quinoa – To make the soup even heartier.
• With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Lentil Soup is a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, this soup is a fantastic choice.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!