This instant pot chicken and lentil soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for those chilly nights. It's packed with protein-rich lentils and juicy chicken thighs, simmered in a savory blend of spices, herbs and veggies. Even better, it comes together quickly in an Instant Pot, making it a convenient meal for busy weeknights.
Photos of Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup Recipe
While most of these ingredients are pantry staples, a few might need a special trip to the supermarket. Sazon is a type of seasoned salt used in Spanish and Latin American cuisine, offering a unique depth of flavor to the soup. It can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Similarly, 'Better than Bouillon' is a concentrated paste made of cooked meat or vegetables that can be used as a base for soups and stews. It can be found near stock and broth in the supermarket.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Lentils: These are a great source of protein and fiber, and they absorb flavors well.
Chicken thighs: They are used for their tenderness and flavor, which infuse the soup.
Water: Used as a base for the soup.
Chicken better than bouillon: It amplifies the chicken flavor in the soup.
Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
Scallions: Used for their mild, onion-like flavor.
Cilantro: Gives a fresh, citrusy flavor to the soup.
Garlic: Adds a pungent, spicy flavor.
Tomato: Provides a sweet, tangy taste.
Garlic powder: Used for its concentrated garlic flavor.
Cumin: Gives the soup an earthy, warm flavor.
Oregano: Adds a hint of sweet, slightly bitter flavor.
Sazon: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Kosher salt: Used to season and enhance the flavors in the soup.
One reader, Gabriella Mendiola says:
This instant pot chicken and lentil soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the dish is so easy to prepare. The lentils and chicken create a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy night in. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
How to prepare the ingredients: Wash and rinse the lentils thoroughly. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and chop the onion, scallions, cilantro, and tomato. Mince the garlic cloves.
How to use the Instant Pot: Ensure the Instant Pot is properly sealed before starting the cooking process. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the Instant Pot safely.
How to shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken thighs directly in the Instant Pot. Pull the forks in opposite directions to create shredded pieces.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your preference before serving.
How To Make Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Make a delicious and healthy meal with this Instant Pot chicken and lentil soup recipe. It’s easy to make and serves plenty for the whole family!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lblentils,dried
- 12ozchicken thighs,boneless, skinless, and all fat trimmed
- 7cupswater
- 2tbspchicken Better than Bouillon
- 1small onion,chopped
- 2scallions,chopped
- ¼cupcilantro,chopped
- 3clovesgarlic
- 1medium ripe tomato,diced
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tspcumin
- ¼tsporegano
- ½tspsazon,or paprika
- ½tspkosher salt,plus more to taste
Instructions
-
Place all the ingredients into the instant pot.
-
Stir and cover. Use “Soup” button and cook for 30 minutes.
-
When done and the pressure releases, shred the chicken and stir.
-
Serve and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
This recipe makes about 11 cups.
Nutrition
- Calories: 305.43kcal
- Fat: 7.79g
- Saturated Fat: 2.03g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.11g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.80g
- Carbohydrates: 38.53g
- Fiber: 6.61g
- Sugar: 2.05g
- Protein: 21.53g
- Cholesterol: 41.67mg
- Sodium: 180.50mg
- Calcium: 41.21mg
- Potassium: 549.04mg
- Iron: 4.34mg
- Vitamin A: 21.13µg
- Vitamin C: 6.52mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
To ensure the lentils are cooked evenly and thoroughly, it's crucial to rinse them under cold water before adding them to the instant pot. This not only removes any dust or debris but also gets rid of the natural coating on lentils that can make the soup feel gritty or cloudy. Additionally, shredding the chicken thighs after they are cooked allows the flavors to distribute evenly throughout the soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cooked ingredients: Utilize pre-cooked chicken or canned lentils to cut down on cooking time.
Instant pot: Utilize an instant pot for faster cooking and easier cleanup.
One-pot meal: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot for quicker cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals in the future.
Efficient chopping: Master efficient chopping techniques to speed up the prep work.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, saving time during cooking.
Multi-task: While the soup is cooking, use the time to prepare other components of the meal or clean up the kitchen.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that may lead to time-consuming fixes.
Time management: Plan and schedule your cooking process to optimize time and avoid last-minute rushes.
Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup Recipe
lentils - Substitute with split peas: Split peas have a similar texture and cook time to lentils, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs, and it will work well in this soup recipe.
chicken better than bouillon - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for chicken better than bouillon, providing a similar flavor base for the soup.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, adding a mild and sweet flavor to the soup.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, providing a mild onion flavor to the soup.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the soup.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a similar flavor.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing a convenient option with a similar taste and texture.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a warm and citrusy flavor to the soup.
sazon - Substitute with paprika and a pinch of ground coriander: A combination of paprika and ground coriander can be used as a substitute for sazon, adding a similar depth of flavor to the soup.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the soup.
Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the instant pot chicken and lentil soup, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Consider using a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the soup with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. This will not only enhance the flavors but also elevate the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a contrasting element by serving the soup alongside a slice of toasted artisan bread. The crunchiness of the bread will complement the hearty nature of the dish.
Balance the composition: Pay attention to the placement of the shredded chicken and lentils within the bowl. Strive for a harmonious balance that showcases each component of the soup.
Emphasize the aroma: As you present the dish, allow the aromatic steam to waft gently towards the diners, tantalizing their senses and building anticipation for the delightful flavors to come.
Essential Tools for Making Chicken and Lentil Soup in an Instant Pot
- Instant Pot: A versatile electric pressure cooker that can be used for cooking a wide variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and meats.
- Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables, herbs, and meat.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure out ingredients such as water, spices, and lentils.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup while it cooks in the Instant Pot.
- Soup ladle: Used for serving the finished chicken and lentil soup.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Chicken and Lentil Soup
Allow the chicken and lentil soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to spoilage and freezer burn.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-top bag. If using a container, leave about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
If using a zip-top bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to minimize the risk of freezer burn. Lay the bag flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen soup inventory.
The chicken and lentil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated soup, transfer it to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
To reheat frozen soup, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water to speed up the thawing process. Once thawed, transfer the soup to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through.
If the reheated soup appears too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little chicken broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken and Lentil Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover chicken and lentil soup to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure the soup is evenly reheated without overcooking the lentils or chicken.
Microwave method: pour the desired amount of leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through. The microwave is a quick and convenient option, but be careful not to overheat the soup, as it may cause the lentils to become mushy.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is ideal for reheating large quantities of soup without the need for constant stirring or monitoring.
Add a splash of broth or water: if the leftover soup has thickened during storage, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help thin it out and improve its consistency when reheating.
Adjust seasonings: after reheating the soup, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may find that the flavors have mellowed or intensified during storage, so adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or other seasonings can help revive the taste.
Interesting Fact About Chicken and Lentil Soup
The Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup recipe is a nutritious and hearty dish that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and are rich in fiber, making them a healthy addition to the soup. Additionally, the use of chicken thighs adds a delicious and savory flavor to the dish. This recipe is a convenient and time-saving option for busy individuals, as it can be easily prepared in an Instant Pot. Enjoying a warm and comforting bowl of this soup can be a satisfying and nourishing experience.
Is Making Chicken and Lentil Soup in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this instant pot chicken and lentil soup recipe is quite high. The ingredients are affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option for households. The use of lentils and chicken thighs provides a good source of protein, while the addition of onions, garlic, and tomato enhances the flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and nutritious choice. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is This Chicken and Lentil Soup Recipe Healthy?
This chicken and lentil soup recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. Here's why:
- Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate
- Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein and are a good source of vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium
- The recipe includes a variety of vegetables, such as onion, scallions, cilantro, garlic, and tomato, which offer a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- The use of herbs and spices like cumin, oregano, and sazon adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for skinless chicken thighs to reduce the overall fat content
- Add more vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient density
- Reduce the amount of chicken better than bouillon or replace it with a low-sodium alternative to control the salt content
- Include a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to add a boost of vitamin C and brighten the flavors
- Serve the soup with a side salad or a slice of whole-grain bread to make it a more complete and satisfying meal
Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot Soup Recipe
This Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the earthy richness of lentils with the savory goodness of chicken. The use of chicken thighs adds depth to the soup, and the combination of spices and aromatics creates a well-balanced and satisfying flavor profile. The simplicity of the preparation makes it a convenient and delicious option for a comforting meal. However, to enhance the overall texture and flavor, consider adding some vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach. Overall, it's a delightful and nourishing soup that is sure to warm the soul.
Enhance Your Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
Why trust this Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup Recipe:
This recipe is a trustworthy choice for your kitchen because it combines the wholesome goodness of lentils and chicken with a flavorful blend of onion, garlic, and cumin. The use of chicken better than bouillon adds depth to the broth, while the sazon and cilantro infuse the soup with a burst of aromatic flavors. The instant pot method ensures a convenient and efficient cooking process, making it a reliable option for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
Instant Pot® Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Recipe
Copycat Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash with Egg Noodles Recipe
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
Instant Pot® Hawaii-Style Shoyu Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe
Instant Pot Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe
Instant Pot® Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Easy Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
