This easy chicken lentil soup recipe makes a hearty and healthy meal that works equally well for lunch or dinner. Whip up a double batch for dinner tonight, and you’ll have leftovers for healthy lunches all week long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Made in one pot and ready in under 45 minutes, this lentil soup is simple and fast to make.
- High in Protein – The combination of chicken and lentils makes this soup a protein-packed meal, with over 20 grams of protein per serving.
- Full of Fiber – Filled with carrots, kale, and red lentils, this lentil soup contains 8 grams of fiber per serving.
- Great for Meal Prep – This chicken lentil soup recipe keeps well in the fridge and freezer, which makes it a great make-ahead meal or meal prep idea.
Ingredients for this Chicken Lentil Soup
- Chicken Breasts – To add some lean protein to the soup. If needed, you can also use leftover chicken, cooked chicken thighs, or store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Red Lentils – To add additional vegetarian protein and boost the fiber content of this chicken lentil soup. If you don’t have red lentils, you can use green or brown lentils, however, it will slightly change the texture and flavor of the soup.
- Curry Powder – To add some spice, heat, and flavor. Feel free to use mild curry powder if you don’t like spicy, or hot curry powder if you like things with a kick.
- Turmeric – Ground turmeric enhances the golden color, adds flavor, and provides anti-inflammatory properties. You can use minced or grated fresh turmeric if you prefer.
- Onion, Ginger, and Garlic – Some aromatics for additional flavor. You can use onion powder, ginger powder, or garlic powder if you don’t have fresh, but they will not provide the same depth of flavor.
- Coconut Milk – To provide a curry-like texture and taste to the soup, both full-fat and lite coconut milk will work well. If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use whole milk with a bit of heavy cream instead.
- Chicken Broth – To make the broth and create a deeper flavor. Feel free to use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer.
- Carrots, Kale, and Cilantro – Some veggies for a boost of fiber and nutrients and a bit of cilantro to serve.
- Olive Oil – To add some healthy fats and cook the veggies.
- Salt and Pepper – To season the soup.
Dietary Adaptations
To Make it Gluten-Free: No adaptations are needed; this soup is gluten-free.
To Make it Dairy-Free: No adaptations are needed; this soup is dairy-free.
