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Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 40
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe

Description

This Chicken Lentil Soup recipe is your new go-to for a quick, healthy, and deeply satisfying meal. Packed with flavor, it boasts tender chicken, hearty lentils, and savory veggies simmered in a rich broth for ultimate comfort. The easy recipe and customizable ingredients make it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (about 1 small chicken)
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add Garlic & Spices: Add minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Incorporate Lentils: Add rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices.
  4. Pour Broth: Pour chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer.
  5. Simmer Soup: Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken into the soup. Heat through for about 5 minutes.
  7. Season to Perfection: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors of the soup.
  9. Serve Hot: Ladle the Chicken Lentil Soup into bowls and serve hot.

Notes

  • Substitutions: Use leftover roasted turkey instead of chicken. Spinach or kale can be added in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Make-Ahead: Soup can be made 2-3 days in advance. Flavors meld further when stored.
  • Storage: Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad. This Chicken Lentil Soup is very filling on its own, but it is also a crowd-pleaser alongside Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe!
  • Lentil Type: Other lentils like red lentils can be used. Red lentils will cook faster and break down slightly more, creating a thicker soup.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Nutrition

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Keywords

Chicken Lentil Soup, easy soup recipe, lentil soup recipe, chicken soup recipe, healthy soup, rotisserie chicken soup, winter soup recipe