If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal, this hearty red lentil and sweet potato soup with chicken is the perfect choice. It’s warm, comforting, and full of nutrients that are good for your body. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
What is Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup with Chicken?
This soup combines red lentils, sweet potatoes, and tender chicken breast into one flavorful dish. Seasoned with garlic, onion, cumin, and a touch of smoked paprika, it delivers bold taste in every spoonful. The soup has a thick, creamy texture without the use of any cream, making it naturally dairy-free and gluten-free.
The red lentils break down as they cook, giving the soup a soft consistency, while chunks of sweet potato add a hint of natural sweetness. The chicken not only boosts the protein but makes the soup hearty enough to serve as a main dish.
Health Benefits and Precautions
This soup is rich in nutrients and offers multiple health benefits:
- Red Lentils: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like folate and iron. They help with digestion and support heart health.
- Sweet Potatoes: High in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. They help improve vision, boost immunity, and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Chicken Breast: A lean source of complete protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall body function.
Precautions: While this soup is generally healthy, people with high blood pressure should watch their salt intake. Opt for low-sodium broth and season sparingly if needed. Also, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can skip the chicken and still enjoy a very nourishing meal.
Hearty Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup with Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes.
- Cook the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add main ingredients: Add the red lentils, sweet potatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Place the chicken breasts in the pot, submerging them slightly under the broth.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are soft and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well.
- Season and serve: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Final Thoughts
This hearty red lentil and sweet potato soup with chicken is a meal that combines nourishment and comfort. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough to serve guests. Packed with proteins, fiber, and vitamins, this balanced dish supports good health while satisfying your appetite. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it stores well and tastes even better the next day!
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