Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl

Name: Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Green Eating

I absolutely love making this Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl, especially during the cooler months. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The tender chicken, earthy lentils, and vibrant vegetables come together in a comforting broth that warms the soul. I find it to be a perfect meal prep option, as it freezes well and tastes even better the next day. With a few simple ingredients and spices, I can whip up a delicious bowlful that my whole family enjoys. It's truly a staple in our home during chilly days!

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:41:18.882Z

When I first attempted this Chicken Lentil Soup, I used leftover roasted chicken and it transformed the dish into something spectacular. The roasting imbued the soup with a depth of flavor that fresh chicken just couldn’t match. I realized that, by using a mix of spices like cumin and coriander, I could elevate the natural tastes of the lentils and chicken very effectively.

One of my best discoveries is the technique of sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth. This step truly enhances the overall depth of flavor, and it’s easier to make in large batches. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up nicely - don’t skip that!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for cold weather.
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils and chicken.
Easy to make and store for leftovers.

Choosing the Right Lentils

Lentils come in various varieties, each with its unique texture and cooking time. For this Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl, I prefer using green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well and add a hearty body to the soup. Red lentils can be an option too, but they cook faster and tend to break down, creating a thicker texture. If you use red lentils, reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes, keeping a close watch for doneness.

Before adding lentils to the soup, be sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or dust. I recommend inspecting them for small stones or impurities, which, although rare, can occasionally be found. This quick step ensures that your soup remains clean and smooth without any unexpected surprises.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Beyond the foundational spices of cumin and coriander, consider enhancing the flavor with additional herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering stage. Adding a bay leaf can impart a subtle depth to the broth. Just remember to remove it before serving! You might also experiment by adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a slight smokiness that complements the chicken beautifully.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, try incorporating a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you sauté the vegetables. This adds a warm kick without overwhelming the soup’s comforting nature, allowing you to cater it to your family's preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a great meal prep option. I like to keep it in airtight containers to maintain freshness. If you're curious about freezing, go ahead! It freezes well for up to three months. Just remember to leave a bit of space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up, as the lentils can absorb liquid during storage. This ensures every bowl is just as delightful as the first!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 cup lentils, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the cumin and coriander, allowing the spices to toast for about 1 minute. Add the rinsed lentils and stir to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Incorporate Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your warm bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips

This soup is versatile
feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer it thicker, reduce the amount of broth, or for a creamy version, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Chicken Lentil Soup Bowl with crusty bread or a side salad makes for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. A slice of sourdough or whole grain bread is perfect for dipping, complementing the soup's textures. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an added layer of flavor.

If you're looking to add extra nutrients, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a few slices of avocado just before serving. This not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a delightful contrast to the warming soup.

Variations to Try

For a different twist, you can swap out the chicken for turkey or even try adding sausage for a heartier flavor. Just be sure to brown the sausage pieces before adding them to the soup to render some fat and deepen the flavor. If you're vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth along with additional beans for protein.

Another fun variation involves adding seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, in the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish, making it vibrant and inviting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your lentils are too mushy, it may be due to overcooking or using split lentils. To avoid this in future batches, keep an eye on cook times and test the lentils for doneness a few minutes before the required time. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

If your soup turns out too thick after cooling, simply add a bit of broth or water during reheating until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, increasing the cooking time without the lid can help evaporate some excess liquid, thickening it back up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or your choice of plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Kale, spinach, or bell peppers would be great additions to the soup.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making this soup a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.