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Creating the perfect Hearty Chicken Lentil Soup begins with understanding the key ingredients that contribute to its flavor and health benefits. Let's dive into what makes this soup not just delicious, but also a powerhouse of nutrition.

Hearty Chicken Lentil Soup

Looking for a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian lunch option? This Hearty Chicken Lentil Soup is perfect for low-carb lunch lovers, combining protein-rich chicken and fiber-packed lentils into a delightful bowl. Whether youre meal prepping or just need a cozy dish, afterka offers recipes that make healthy eating easy! VegetarianLunch LowCarbLunch HealthyEating MealPrep ComfortFood Nutrition SoupRecipes
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

6 cups chicken broth

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp dried thyme

½ tsp salt (or to taste)

¼ tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1 bay leaf

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions
 

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

      Add the chopped chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

        Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.

          Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and add the rinsed lentils and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

            Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, letting it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

              Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper as necessary.

                If using, add the lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.

                  Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6