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Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

This hearty Lentil Chicken Soup combines nutritious red lentils, tender shredded chicken, and flavorful vegetables simmered with fragrant spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free American-style soup is perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

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. Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onions: In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are lightly golden, approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic and Cook: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook until fragrant, about one minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Incorporate Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, until the spices become fragrant and the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Add Lentils, Carrots, and Broth: Pour in the red lentils, sliced carrots, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  5. Simmer Soup: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender and cooked through.
  6. Add Shredded Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken to warm it through.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro as desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last around 4 days in the fridge.
  • Freezing Instructions: Freeze the soup in individual portions for easier thawing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.