Are you ready to experience a culinary journey that combines the hearty protein of chicken, the nutty richness of peanut butter, and the wholesome goodness of lentils in one extraordinary soup? This Chicken Peanut Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will transform your dinner routine and leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nutritious, satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by rinsing lentils, dicing chicken breast into uniform cubes, chopping onion, and mincing garlic.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sauté chopped onions until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until the exterior turns white and begins to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, whisk peanut butter with soy sauce until smooth, then slowly stir into the soup to create a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips
- Ingredient Preparation is Key: Ensure your lentils are thoroughly rinsed to remove any debris, and dice your chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Sauté for Maximum Flavor: Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic. The caramelization adds depth to the soup's overall taste profile.
- Peanut Butter Technique: When adding peanut butter, whisk it separately with soy sauce to create a smooth mixture that will integrate seamlessly into the soup.
- Don't Overcook Lentils: Keep an eye on your cooking time to prevent lentils from becoming mushy. They should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro isn't just a garnish – it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the soup's richness.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or spinach to boost nutrition and customize the soup to your liking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
