As the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to make you feel cozy and nourished. This Italian-inspired lentil soup with chicken tenderloin is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Combining tender chicken pieces with hearty lentils and fresh vegetables, this soup brings an Italian twist to the table with the addition of aromatic herbs and a hint of lemon for brightness. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply looking to meal-prep for the week, this soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
What Makes This Soup Special?
Not only is this soup rich and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Lentils provide a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add more wholesome ingredients to their diet. Plus, the chicken tenderloin adds a lean protein that makes the soup filling without being too heavy.
The Italian-inspired flavors of oregano, basil, and a dash of red pepper flakes bring warmth and depth, while the lemon juice added just before serving gives it a refreshing zing that balances the rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:
- Lentils – Dried lentils bring a nutty, earthy taste and a creamy texture to the soup.
- Olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
- Chicken tenderloin – Lean, tender chicken pieces that cook quickly and absorb all the flavors beautifully.
- Vegetables – Onion, carrots, and celery add depth and a slight sweetness to the soup.
- Garlic – Adds a robust, aromatic flavor.
- Herbs and spices – Oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes give the soup an Italian twist with a hint of heat.
- Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and depth, along with a vibrant color.
- Chicken broth and water – The broth provides a savory base, while water helps balance the flavors.
- Lemon juice – A final touch for a fresh, tangy note.
- Fresh parsley – A garnish that brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken tenderloin pieces, cooking them until they’re browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. - Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the spices cook for an additional minute to release their aromas. - Combine with Broth, Lentils, and Tomatoes
Add the diced tomatoes (including their juice), chicken broth, water, and rinsed lentils. Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are well combined. - Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. - Finish with Chicken and Seasonings
Return the browned chicken to the pot and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld all the flavors. - Add a Zing of Lemon and Serve
Just before serving, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Italian-inspired lentil soup with chicken tenderloin is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing bowl of comfort that’s easy to customize. Add more vegetables, throw in some leafy greens like spinach or kale, or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s also a fantastic meal to prep ahead and reheat throughout the week, as the flavors deepen with time.
Serve it alongside some crusty bread, a simple side salad, or enjoy it on its own. Wholesome, hearty, and packed with Italian flavors, this soup is a perfect choice for any season!
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Italian-Inspired Lentil Soup with Chicken Tenderloin
Description
Savor the warmth and comfort of this Italian-inspired lentil soup, bursting with fresh vegetables and rich flavors. Quick to prep and simple to make, this hearty, protein-packed soup features tender chicken tenderloin pieces to satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for any season, this dish will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
– 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound chicken tenderloin, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken tenderloin pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Saut until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Stir in lemon juice just before serving for a fresh zing.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.