Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with flavor and warmth, you will absolutely love this Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe. It’s a beautiful medley of tender chicken, earthy red lentils, and smoky spices that come together in a rich broth that soothes and satisfies. Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a nourishing lift, this soup combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe plays an essential role, from the bright spices that awaken your senses to the wholesome vegetables that deepen the flavor and texture. These simple components come together effortlessly to create a soup that’s flavorful and wonderfully satisfying.

• Olive oil: Adds a silky base for cooking the veggies and spices, giving the soup a smooth richness.
• Large onion (chopped): Provides a sweet and savory backbone, becoming tender and fragrant as it cooks.
• Medium carrot (chopped): Brings natural sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the spices.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic depth.
• Turmeric: Offers an earthy brightness and beautiful golden color.
• Cumin: Lends a smoky, slightly nutty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a gorgeous smoky warmth that makes every spoonful irresistible.
• Red lentils (dry): The heart of the soup, these cook down to create a silky texture and earthy flavor.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the color and adds a rich umami lift.
• Chicken broth (low or no sodium): The flavorful liquid base that brings all the ingredients together.
• Cooked shredded chicken breasts: Adds satisfying protein and tender bites throughout.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
• Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• Chopped parsley: Freshens up the finished soup with a bright herbal note.
• Chopped green onions: Provides a mild onion crunch and vivid color for garnish.

How to Make Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook Mirepoix

Start by heating olive oil in your favorite Dutch Oven or heavy soup pot. Toss in the chopped onion, carrot, and minced garlic. Let them cook gently for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavor base that sets the stage for all the spices and future layers of taste.

Step 2: Make Soup Base

Next, sprinkle in your turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the softened veggies. This is where the soup begins to sing with warmth and earthy complexity. Add the red lentils and tomato paste, then pour in the chicken broth while stirring until the tomato paste dissolves completely, creating a rich and inviting broth.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Stir in your shredded cooked chicken, then bring the whole pot to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the red lentils will soften until they almost melt into the soup, thickening it and adding a velvety texture. Remember to stir occasionally so the lentils don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions for a fresh and vibrant finish. You’ll be greeted with a stunning bowl that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

How to Serve Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the experience of this soup—try sprinkling on freshly chopped parsley and thinly sliced green onions. They add a burst of color and a lovely, crisp contrast to the silky lentils. A squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add brightness and richness just before serving.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm pita makes it even more delightful. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil balances the warmth and spice perfectly. Rice or couscous are also excellent if you want to stretch the meal and add a comforting side.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or just treat yourself, serve the soup in rustic, wide bowls topped with a swirl of yogurt or crème fraîche. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for extra texture and a subtle kick. Offering small bowls of garnishes on the side invites everyone to customize their own bowl, making the meal interactive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavor and texture. The soup often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to meld together.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. The lentils hold up wonderfully after freezing without losing their smooth texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup feels too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency. It’s as comforting the second time around as it was fresh.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs for cooking the chicken broth adds even more depth to the soup’s flavor. Just make sure to shred the meat before adding it to the pot and discard the bones.

Is this soup spicy?

Not at all! The smoked paprika and cumin bring warmth and smoky undertones without heat. If you like a little extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes when you add the spices.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. The red lentils and spices will still create a richly flavorful soup — you can add extra vegetables or plant-based protein for heartiness.

How thick is the soup supposed to be?

This soup has a lovely medium thickness, thanks to the red lentils breaking down. It’s more substantial than a broth but still smooth and spoonable. Adjust thickness by adding more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this soup?

Poaching chicken breasts in water or broth until just cooked through is ideal. It keeps the meat tender and juicy, perfect for shredding. You can also use leftover roasted chicken for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Red Lentil Chicken Soup Recipe is such a treasure when you want a nourishing meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough to make any day but special enough to share with people you care about. I promise once you’ve had a bowl, you’ll be coming back for more—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a forever favorite.

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