Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

INTRODUCTION

Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach is a warm and comforting dish. It brings together tender chicken, healthy lentils, and fragrant spices. This soup is perfect for chilly days. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. You can enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or any time in between.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, it is very easy to make. Even if you are a beginner in the kitchen, you can follow the simple steps to create a nourishing soup. Second, it is a one-pot meal. This means less cleanup after cooking, which is always a bonus. Third, the flavors are amazing. The blend of curry powder, ginger, and fresh spinach creates a tasty dish that will warm you from the inside out. Lastly, it is healthy. The chicken, lentils, and vegetables provide protein and nutrients to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

HOW TO MAKE Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

Making Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach is straightforward. With just a few steps, you will have a rich and flavorful soup.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this soup, you will need:

• A large pot
• A cutting board
• A knife
• A wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups spinach, fresh
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
2. Stir in the curry powder and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in the lentils, rice, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until lentils and rice are tender.
5. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

HOW TO SERVE Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

You can serve this soup hot in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers. You might also enjoy it with a simple salad on the side. For extra flavor, you can garnish it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon juice. This adds a nice freshness to the warm soup.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

This soup is great for meal prep. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just place it in an airtight container. When you are ready to eat, reheat it on the stove until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight or warm it directly from the freezer over low heat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach can be served in many ways. You can add a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley can bring brightness. Try serving it with toasted pita bread or naan. It makes for a hearty meal that will fill you up.

VARIATIONS

You can modify this soup to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans or tofu for protein.
• Spice Level: If you like your soup spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers.
• Different Greens: Instead of spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

2. What kind of lentils should I use?

You can use any type of lentils, but brown or green lentils work best for soups. They hold their shape well during cooking.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rice. Always check labels if you are sensitive to gluten.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

If you want to save time, you can prepare the vegetables and chicken in advance. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery, and store them in the fridge. You can also dice the chicken and keep it in a container until you are ready to cook. This way, when you are ready to make the soup, everything is ready to go.

You can also cook a big batch of this soup and freeze portions for later. It is always nice to have a comforting meal on hand for busy days. Enjoy your cooking!

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