Healthy Chicken Lentil Soup
A warm and nutritious soup combining tender chicken, lentils, and vegetables, perfect for comforting meals year-round.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils Rinse thoroughly and remove any stones.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (breast or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and remove any debris.
- Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Cut the chicken into small pieces and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Cooking the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding Lentils and Chicken
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, add the seasoned chicken and continue to simmer until fully cooked.
Final Touches
- Check that the lentils are soft and the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Season with salt and pepper, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
You can customize this soup with Mediterranean or spicy variations by adding different herbs and vegetables. Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later.