Soups & Stews
Creamy Lentil & Chicken Soup with Parmesan Rind
Watch Henry make it
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, picked over and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Parmesan rind
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- ⅔ cup lite coconut milk
- 2 cups coarsely chopped spinach
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
Directions
- 1
Build the base
In a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the onion and carrots with a splash of the broth. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- 2
Bloom the spices
Stir in the garlic, coriander, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant.
- 3
Simmer with depth
Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, remaining broth, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- 4
Blend for creaminess
Remove and discard the bay leaves and Parmesan rind. Blend about half of the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot to create a naturally creamy texture.
- 5
Finish the soup
Stir in the shredded chicken, coconut milk, spinach, parsley, vinegar, and salt. Simmer uncovered for 3-5 minutes, just until heated through and the spinach wilts.
Serving Notes
- Finish with freshly cracked black pepper or a light Parmesan grate
- Optional yogurt swirl for contrast and brightness
- Serve with warm crusty bread or a scoop of black rice for a Protein Flip™ bowl
Why the Parmesan Rind Matters
- Adds deep umami and savory complexity without heaviness
- Enhances flavor while reducing the need for extra salt
- Creates the taste of a long-simmered soup in a fraction of the time
Chef Recommendation for This Recipe
- Want more texture + visible lentils? → Green lentils
- Want extra creaminess + softer body? → Brown lentils
Best of both worlds
- Use ½ green + ½ brown
Nutrition
Per 1 serving
Estimated per serving. Actual values vary with brands, substitutions, and portion size. This is general information, not medical or nutrition advice.
Check every ingredient against your own allergies and dietary needs. See our Health & Nutrition Disclaimer.
