Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup

Name: Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

When it comes to comforting meals, I absolutely love a hearty soup, especially this Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup. It combines tender chunks of chicken with earthy lentils and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. I love how the spices enhance the natural taste of the ingredients, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Plus, it's incredibly simple to whip up, and the best part is you can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. A bowl of this soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a chilly day.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:41:36.205Z

While experimenting with flavors and textures, I stumbled upon the magic of combining lentils with chicken in a soup form. The lentils give it body while the chicken adds a protein punch, making it satisfying and nutritious. I discovered that simmering everything slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic soup that warms the soul.

One tip I swear by is to use a good quality broth. It elevates the taste dramatically, transforming a simple soup into a gourmet dish. Adding a bit of lemon zest at the end brightens everything and adds a refreshing note!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flavorful mix of Mediterranean spices that excite the palate
Nutritious lentils paired with tender chicken for a complete meal
Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead for busy days

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this soup, providing a hearty texture and substantial nutrition. They cook faster than many other legumes, usually becoming tender within just 20 to 30 minutes. Their earthy flavor complements the spices beautifully, enhancing the overall taste profile of the Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup. Opt for green or brown lentils in this recipe, as they hold their shape well, while red lentils tend to break down and create a mushier texture.

One of the great things about lentils is their high protein content, making this soup not only filling but also nourishing. For those looking for a plant-based option, you can substitute the chicken with more lentils or chickpeas, creating a completely meat-free meal that's still rich in flavor and texture.

Perfecting Your Soup

To achieve a perfectly balanced flavor in your Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup, make sure to stir the spices in well when they are added. This allows the oils from the spices to release and blend harmoniously with the vegetables, enhancing the soup's aromatic profile. Cooking the vegetables until they are just softened before adding the broth ensures they maintain a slight crunch, contributing to the overall texture of the dish.

If you find that the soup thickens more than you'd like, feel free to add additional chicken broth or water a half cup at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Similarly, if you want the soup to be bolder, consider increasing the spice levels slightly or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup is delightful as a standalone dish, but serving it with crusty bread or a side salad can take your meal to the next level. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add a creamy, tangy contrast that beautifully offsets the hearty flavors in the soup. Pairing it with lemon wedges allows for an extra burst of freshness with each spoonful.

If you're looking to make this soup stretch further, consider preparing a grain side such as quinoa to serve alongside or mixed in. This not only adds another layer of texture but also boosts the nutrition even more. Plan on storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash more broth as needed.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup lentils, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softer.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute, then add the rinsed lentils, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary.

Incorporate Chicken and Season

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and the lemon juice and zest. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to warm the chicken through.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of diced tomatoes or spinach towards the end of cooking. This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store the Mediterranean Lentil Chicken Soup, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to restore moisture, as lentils tend to absorb liquid over time. Heat slowly on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

For long-term storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making it easy to thaw single servings. It's best to freeze the soup without chicken if you plan to keep it for more than a month, as the texture of chicken can change once frozen and reheated.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables depending on what you have on hand. Zucchini or spinach would integrate nicely, adding an additional layer of flavor and nutrition. You could also substitute the shredded chicken with shredded turkey for a different protein option. Adding beans, such as white or garbanzo beans, would enhance the soup's heartiness and provide an alternative source of protein for a vegetarian version.

Herbs can also play a significant role in transforming the profile of this soup. While the recipe calls for parsley for garnish, consider adding fresh basil or dill for a unique twist. These herbs offer a refreshing contrast to the warm spices, making each bowl feel like a new experience every time you enjoy it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the chicken with additional vegetables or vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What kind of lentils should I use?

Brown or green lentils work best, as they hold their shape during cooking.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate zucchini, spinach, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.