Chicken Lentil Soup

The Story Behind the Recipe 🥣

Every family has a recipe that feels like a warm hug — the kind of dish you turn to when you’re tired, cold, or just need something comforting. For me, that’s Chicken Lentil Soup.

I remember the very first time I made it. It was one of those chilly evenings when the rain was softly pattering on the windows, and all I wanted was a bowl of something hearty and healing. I had leftover roast chicken from the night before, a few carrots, some celery, and a jar of lentils sitting quietly in the pantry.

I didn’t follow a recipe — I just started cooking from the heart. The smell of onions and garlic sautéing in olive oil filled the kitchen, and as the lentils simmered with tender chicken, the broth turned rich and golden. It was simple, rustic, and oh-so-satisfying.

When I served it that night, everyone around the table went quiet after the first spoonful — that kind of silence that only happens when something tastes just right. Since then, this Chicken Lentil Soup has become one of my go-to comfort meals — a reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most special. ❤️

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What Makes This Recipe Special

This soup isn’t fancy — but that’s what makes it magical. It’s humble, hearty, and full of love. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• 🍗 Protein-Packed: Chicken and lentils together create a nourishing, filling meal.
• 🥕 Hearty & Wholesome: Full of veggies, herbs, and natural goodness.
• 🍲 One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup and no fuss — perfect for weeknights.
• 💛 Budget-Friendly: Made from pantry staples and leftover chicken.
• 🌿 Comfort in a Bowl: The aroma alone will make your heart smile.

This soup doesn’t just feed your body — it feeds your soul.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

🍲 For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great!)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color & health boost)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)

🌿 Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced potatoes or sweet potatoes
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes for heat

🌱 For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley
• A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan
• Crusty bread on the side 🍞

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the veggies begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Spices

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, oregano, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to release all those wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Add Lentils & Broth

Add the rinsed lentils and pour in the chicken broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Step 4: Add Chicken

Stir in the cooked chicken. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

(If you’re adding potatoes, toss them in with the lentils so they cook through.)

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Remove the bay leaf, and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with warm crusty bread. 🍞💛

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

This Chicken Lentil Soup is perfect on its own, but pairing it with simple sides takes it to the next level:

• 🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: For soaking up that delicious broth.
• 🥗 Fresh Green Salad: Light and crisp with a lemon vinaigrette.
• 🍚 Rice or Quinoa: Makes it even heartier for dinner.
• 🧀 Grilled Cheese or Flatbread: Classic comfort combo.
• 🍷 White Wine or Herbal Tea: A soothing drink pairing.

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Customization & Variations

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious — make it your own!

• 🫘 Add Beans: A can of white beans or chickpeas adds extra heartiness.
• 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
• 🥬 Green Goodness: Stir in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard at the end.
• 🍅 Tomato Twist: Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangy flavor.
• 🍋 Bright & Fresh: A splash of lemon juice or zest adds zing.
• 🥔 Extra Filling: Add potatoes or barley for a thicker stew-like texture.

You can even swap chicken for turkey — perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers! 🦃

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Storing & Reheating

This soup stores beautifully — and honestly, it tastes even better the next day.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens.

(Tip: Freeze in single servings — they make perfect quick lunches or dinners!)

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 11g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

This Chicken Lentil Soup is a balanced meal — high in protein, rich in fiber, and full of vitamins and minerals. Comfort food that truly fuels you. 💚

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked?
Yes! Add raw chicken breasts or thighs in Step 3, let them simmer with the lentils, then shred before serving.

2. What kind of lentils work best?
Green or brown lentils hold their shape best for soup. Red lentils work too, but they’ll make it creamier.

3. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients except lemon juice and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

4. How about an Instant Pot version?
Yes — cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then natural release for 10 minutes.

5. Can I skip the lemon juice?
You can, but it really brightens the flavors!

6. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure your broth is gluten-free.

7. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Definitely — it’s perfect for this recipe!

8. How can I make it creamier?
Blend a cup of soup and stir it back in, or add a splash of coconut milk.

9. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes — zucchini, bell peppers, or peas taste great here.

10. How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 5 days, and the flavors just keep getting better!

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

This Chicken Lentil Soup is everything I love about home cooking — simple, wholesome, and full of love. 💛

Every bowl feels like a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the little things. The lentils bring heartiness, the chicken adds richness, and the herbs and veggies tie it all together into one comforting, soul-warming meal.

It’s a dish that fits every mood — whether you’re under the weather, feeding your family, or just craving something cozy. And the best part? It’s made with everyday ingredients that turn into something extraordinary.

So the next time you want to wrap yourself in comfort, make a pot of this Chicken Lentil Soup — and let it fill your kitchen (and your heart) with warmth. 🍲❤️

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Tried This Recipe? 💕

Did you make my Chicken Lentil Soup?

📸 I’d love to see your delicious bowls! Tag @Granny’s Lil Kitchen on Pinterest and share your creations.

Maybe you added spinach, swapped in turkey, or made it extra spicy — whatever your twist, I’d love to see it!

Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate the recipe, and follow me for more comforting, home-cooked goodness. Because the best dinners are the ones made with love — and shared with family. 💕