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Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 137 reviews

This hearty Lentil Chicken Soup combines tender shredded chicken, red lentils, and a blend of warm spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for colder days, this soup is flavorful, easy to prepare, and packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup dry red lentils
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded chicken
  • Cilantro, for serving

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are lightly golden, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
  2. Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste along with smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes until the spices become fragrant and the onions and garlic are well coated with the paste.
  3. Cook Lentils and Vegetables: Add the dry red lentils, sliced carrots, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the lentils and carrots are tender, which should take approximately 20 minutes.
  4. Add Shredded Chicken and Finish: Stir in the shredded chicken to warm it through. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth and shredded chicken with vegetable broth and add extra vegetables or tofu.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially salt and spices.
  • Red lentils cook relatively quickly and tend to break down, creating a creamy texture.
  • You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of chili flakes for added brightness or heat.

Keywords: lentil chicken soup, red lentil soup, healthy chicken soup, easy lentil soup, comforting soup recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/lentil-chicken-soup-recipe/