This Homemade Lentil Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Learn How To Make Chicken Lentil Soup with Rice for an added heartiness. This Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe Easy is ideal for weeknight dinners and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
Embracing Comfort with Homemade Lentil Chicken Soup
There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. This Homemade Lentil Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs is a perfect choice, bringing together tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and a medley of vibrant vegetables.
Not only is this dish comforting, but it also offers a nourishing experience, making it ideal for cozy meals with family or friends.
For those looking for a heartier option, consider the Chicken Lentil Soup with Rice, which adds an extra layer of satisfaction to this delightful recipe.
Learning how to make Chicken Lentil Soup is straightforward, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this Chicken Lentil Soup lies in its fresh ingredients.
From the earthy lentils to the vibrant carrots and celery, each component contributes to the rich texture and inviting appearance of the dish.
With just a handful of ingredients, including tender chicken thighs or breasts, aromatic herbs, and a flavorful broth, this soup is both simple and satisfying.
Preparation Steps to Perfection
Preparing this Chicken Lentil Soup is an enjoyable process that begins with chopping fresh vegetables.
Once the ingredients are prepped, sautéing the aromatics in olive oil fills the kitchen with a delightful fragrance.
Next, browning the chicken adds depth to the flavor, creating a robust base for the soup.
Simmering to Enhance Flavors
After combining the ingredients, the soup is brought to a boil before being simmered to perfection.
During this time, the lentils soften, and the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish that warms the soul.
The addition of fresh spinach or kale at the end not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color to the bowl.
Serving Suggestions
Once the soup is ready, ladling it into bowls is a satisfying finale.
Garnishing with chopped fresh parsley enhances the presentation and adds a fresh touch.
This Chicken Lentil Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken Lentil Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Each serving offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
With approximately 280 calories per bowl, it’s a guilt-free option that satisfies hunger without compromising health.
Simple Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe
This Chicken Lentil Soup features a rich texture and vibrant colors from fresh ingredients like carrots, celery, and herbs. The soup is simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Rinse the lentils and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the garlic, lentils, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, return the chicken to the pot, and cover. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cooked rice if using.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g