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In recent years, healthy soups have surged in popularity as a go-to option for those seeking nourishing meals that pack flavor without excessive calories. They perfectly combine comfort and nutrition, providing a warm hug in a bowl during chillier months or a refreshing dish when served cold. Among these delightful concoctions is the Hearty High-Protein Chicken Lentil Soup, a masterpiece that balances protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Hearty High-Protein Chicken Lentil Soup

This hearty soup combines tender chicken and nutritious lentils, making it a protein-rich meal perfect for any time of the year.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils thoroughly rinsed
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with juices 14.5 oz
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 fresh lemon juiced
  • fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  • Incorporate minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes.
  • Add diced chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
  • Stir in rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt; bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
  • Stir in chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and mix in fresh lemon juice; adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley for added flavor.
Keyword chicken, comfort food, healthy, high protein, lentils, soup