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Easy Chicken Lentil Soup

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This Easy Chicken Lentil Soup is a hearty, protein-packed one-pot meal made with tender chicken, wholesome lentils, and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this comforting chicken lentil soup recipe is nourishing, filling, and full of rich, savory flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 6 cups chicken broth

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • Salt to taste

  • Black pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

  • 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

  • Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, and dried thyme. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Add rinsed lentils, chicken broth, bay leaf, and chicken. Bring to a gentle boil.

  • Reduce heat to a simmer, partially cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).

  • Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.

  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf.

  • Stir in lemon juice if desired and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Lentils do not require soaking—just rinse before cooking.

  • If using rotisserie chicken, add shredded chicken during the last 10–15 minutes.

  • For a thicker soup, blend 1 cup of soup and stir it back in.

  • Add spinach or diced potatoes for a heartier variation.

  • Soup thickens as it sits—add extra broth when reheating if needed.

  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/easy-chicken-lentil-soup/