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Curried Chicken Lentil and Rice Soup with Spinach

A wholesome and hearty soup featuring tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and vibrant spinach in a spiced curry broth, perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Fusion, Indian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
  • 1 medium onion, diced Add sweetness to the soup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cubed Can substitute with chickpeas for a vegetarian option
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock Use low-sodium if desired
  • 1 cup cooked rice Brown or white
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Juice of lime Can use lemon as an alternative

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent—about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute.
  3. Toss in the cubed chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, and let those spices cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the stock and add the rinsed lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Stir in the cooked rice and the chopped spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lime juice before serving.
  8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra spinach leaves or fresh herbs.

Notes

This soup is great for meal prep; just double the batch and freeze leftovers for easy meals later. A splash of coconut milk can make it creamier.