Go Back

Chicken Lentil Soup: The Ultimate Hearty Recipe

This incredible ultimate chicken lentil soup combines tender chicken with protein-rich lentils for a complete, satisfying meal that's ready in just 1 hour.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup dried lentils green or brown
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • ladle

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  3. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. Stir well to combine.
  7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let simmer for 30-35 minutes or until lentils are tender.
  8. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes

Use green or brown lentils for best texture. Cook chicken until no longer pink for food safety. Simmer covered to ensure lentils cook properly. Can be stored in refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.