Instant Pot Chicken Lentil Soup

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Looking for a hearty meal that won’t break the bank? Our chicken lentil soup might just be the budget-friendly recipe for you. This filling soup, packed with protein-rich lentils and succulent chicken thighs, will satisfy you. A medley of spices, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs intertwine to create a tantalizing flavor profile.

This recipe is kind to your wallet and a breeze to make, especially if you have an Instant Pot on hand.

So why wait? Let’s dive into creating this delicious, wallet-friendly chicken lentil soup.

A Brief History of Chicken Lentil Soup

Chicken Lentil Soup is a time-honored dish with roots dating back to ancient times. Lentils, the key ingredient in our soup, have been a staple food in Middle Eastern cuisines for centuries, known for their nutritional value, delicious taste, and affordability.

On the other hand, chicken has been a global food favorite, adding its unique taste and nutritional benefits to countless dishes. Combining these two creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making Chicken Lentil Soup a comforting, hearty, and delicious meal.

Instant Pot Chicken Lentil Soup Ingredients

Below are the ingredients to make this soup:

• 2 chicken thighs, boneless – provides a savory base for your soup
• 1 cup lentils (rinsed) – a rich source of protein and fiber
• 1 large carrot, cut into 1 cm slices – adds color, flavor, and additional nutrients
• 1 tsp dried oregano – for a bit of herby freshness
• 1 onion chopped – for a foundational layer of flavor
• 2 small tomatoes chopped – adds brightness and acidity
• 3-4 garlic cloves chopped – for a touch of aromatic pungency
• 1 tsp cumin powder – brings warmth and earthiness to the dish
• 1 tsp garlic powder – boosts the garlicky flavor
• 1 tsp paprika powder – adds a smoky, sweet undertone
• ¼ tsp turmeric powder – provides a subtle earthy flavor and color
• 1 tbsp oil – used to sauté the vegetables
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro – for garnish and a fresh finish
• 3 cups chicken stock – to create a flavourful soup base

What makes this recipe special?

This Chicken Lentil Soup recipe is frugal but doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. It’s a budget-friendly soup that utilizes inexpensive ingredients to develop a rich, hearty flavor, making it a go-to dish for those seeking savings without sacrificing taste or health.

What is a lentil, and why is this recipe affordable?

Lentils are small, lens-shaped legumes that come in various colors. They’re brimming with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. They’re affordable because they have a long shelf life, are widely available, and provide a cost-effective protein source. This recipe’s affordability comes from its simple, economical ingredients yielding a large quantity of nutritious, hearty soup.

Steps to Make the Recipe

1. Heat the instant pot and add the olive oil, garlic, onion, carrots, and tomato and press “sauté”, stirring often for about 5-6 minutes until softened.
2. Add the salt, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric, oregano, lentils, chicken thighs, and chicken broth.
3. Place the lid on top and use the “Soup” button to cook for 20 minutes.
4. When done and the pressure has been released, open the pot and shred the chicken, add to the soup, and stir. Serve with chopped cilantro.

Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal on a budget with our Chicken Lentil Soup recipe.

Here’s a cost breakdown for this recipe serving 4:

• 2 boneless chicken thighs: $1.50
• 1 cup lentils: $0.75
• 1 large carrot: $0.10
• Spices (oregano, cumin, garlic, paprika, turmeric): $0.25
• 1 onion: $0.15
• 2 small tomatoes: $0.30
• Garlic cloves: $0.10
• Oil: $0.05
• Chopped cilantro: $0.15
• 3 cups chicken stock: $0.75

Our estimation for the total cost of this recipe is around $5.10. This means that the cost per serving of this heartwarming and wholesome Chicken Lentil Soup is only $1.27! Enjoy culinary excellence without breaking the bank, only with our Chicken Lentil Soup.