High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

On chilly days when you crave something warm and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup. This hearty soup boasts a delightful combination of tender chicken, wholesome lentils, and vibrant vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm your soul. Did you know that lentils date back thousands of years and are one of the first cultivated crops? Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with protein and fiber, making this soup an excellent choice for family meals. In fact, if you loved our popular “Creamy Chickpea Soup” from last month, you’re in for a treat, as this recipe carries the same love and care, plus a protein boost!

What is High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup?

So, what exactly is High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup? Well, it’s a magical concoction where tender chicken meets the earthy goodness of lentils. But what’s with the name? Does it sound fancy? Are we theater-going connoisseurs struggling with our dinner table picks? Nah, it’s just a straightforward, hearty meal that proves — the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach! Whether my husband thinks he’s getting gourmet or not, he always leaves the table happy. Trust me; this recipe will have everyone dashing back for seconds. Give it a try, and let’s make your kitchen the star of your family gathering!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

There are countless reasons to adore this High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup, but let’s spotlight three key highlights. First, this dish stands out as a main meal that satisfies hunger without breaking the bank. The ingredients are easy to find, affordable, and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry — a true reflection of home cooking at its finest! Second, cooking this soup can be a budget-friendly alternative to ordering takeout. You could save your spare change for that new book or fun family outing! Lastly, let’s talk toppings. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a dollop of yogurt can take this soup to the next level, bursting up flavor profiles in a way that rivals any restaurant dish. So why wait? Let’s dive into making this fantastic soup together!

How to Make High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

Quick Overview

Making High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup is simple, enjoyable, and unbelievably satisfying. This dish boasts both luscious textures and robust flavors, offering a delightful experience in every spoonful. With a preparation time of just about 15 minutes and a cooking time of around 30 minutes, you’ll have a nourishing meal ready before you know it.

Key Ingredients for High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless, diced)
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown, rinsed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 6 cups chicken broth or stock (Make sure it’s Halal-certified)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (for added nutrition)
• Juice of 1 lemon (freshly squeezed)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then stir in the minced garlic for another minute.
2. Brown the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix in the Spices: Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything in those aromatic spices.
4. Add the Lentils and Broth: Pour in the rinsed lentils and chicken broth. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Finish with Greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and the lemon juice. Let it sit for another 5 minutes to allow the greens to wilt.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs before diving in!

Top Tips for Perfecting High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

Achieving the perfect High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup is a cinch with these pro-tips! For substitutions, you can easily replace chicken with legumes like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Timing is everything — make sure your lentils are prepped and rinsed ahead of time, as this speeds up your cooking process. Look out for overcooking the lentils; they should hold some shape but be tender. Adding a splash more broth or water while cooking can help you achieve your desired consistency.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This delicious High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup stores remarkably well! Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container; it can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully; make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain that lovely texture.

Dive into a bowl of nourishing goodness with this High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup, perfect for all family gatherings or cozy winter evenings. Your loved ones will thank you!

High Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

A hearty and satisfying soup combining tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for chilly days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless, diced) Use either breast or thighs based on preference.
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown, rinsed) Make sure they are rinsed before using.
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 cups chicken broth or stock Ensure it is Halal-certified.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale For added nutrition.
• 1 medium lemon (juice of, freshly squeezed)
• to taste Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic for another minute.

Cooking

1. Add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything.
3. Pour in the rinsed lentils and chicken broth. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and the lemon juice. Let it sit for another 5 minutes to allow the greens to wilt.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

For vegetarian options, replace chicken with legumes like chickpeas or tofu. Ensure lentils are rinsed ahead of time to expedite cooking. Be careful not to overcook the lentils; they should hold some shape but be tender.