Chicken and lentil soup with fresh herbs
Chicken and lentil soup is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, hearty lentils, and aromatic spices. This nourishing soup is perfect for a cozy meal, enhanced with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
2 cups lentils12 oz chicken breasts
8 cups water
1 tbsp chicken broth cubes
1 onion
2 onions
1 tsp coriander leaves
3 garlic cloves
1 tomato
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tbsp paprika
1 dash salt
Chicken and lentil soup with fresh herbs is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the hearty goodness of lentils with the lean protein of chicken. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is elevated with aromatic spices and fresh herbs to deliver a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or prepare a wholesome and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Instructions:
- Rinse the lentils under cold running water and set them aside.
- Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the large onion and the two small onions.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the tomato.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and cook the chicken breasts until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped onions until they are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomato to the pot and cook for a few minutes until it starts to break down and release its juices.
- Stir in the lentils.
- Pour in 8 cups of water.
- Add the chicken broth cubes, garlic powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, and a dash of salt.
- Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add the browned chicken pieces back into the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the coriander leaves just before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Your homemade chicken and lentil soup with fresh herbs is now ready to be enjoyed. This hearty, flavorful soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Chicken and lentil soup with fresh herbs FAQ:
You should simmer the soup for about 30-40 minutes to allow the lentils to become tender. After adding the chicken, let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
You can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the different ingredients.
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Brown or green lentils are the best choices for this soup, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to become mushy.
If the lentils are not cooking properly, ensure you used enough water and that they were rinsed well initially. If they remain hard after simmering, they may be old or stale, so check their freshness before cooking.
Tips:
- Soak the lentils in water for at least one hour before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestion.
- Cut the chicken breasts into small, even pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Feel free to add more fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like your soup spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use homemade chicken broth instead of water and broth cubes for a richer, more authentic flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
Nutrition per serving
9 ServingsCalories 210kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 1.92g
Fat 1.58g
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