Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup is the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and exciting. It combines tender chicken, hearty lentils, and warm spices into a bowl that satisfies without feeling heavy. This recipe brings together simple pantry ingredients and a bold chili paste to create depth without complexity. If you enjoy soups that are filling, balanced, and rich in flavor, this one fits naturally into a weeknight routine while still feeling special enough to serve guests.
Print
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup That Delivers Bold Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A hearty, protein-rich soup made with tender chicken, lentils, cumin, and harissa, finished with lemon and a creamy yogurt topping.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 scallions, thinly sliced, white/light green parts separated from dark green parts
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste
4 teaspoons ground cumin
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons harissa sauce or paste
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 (15.5-ounce) cans lentils, drained and rinsed
4½ cups water
4 pieces pita bread
1 teaspoon lemon zest
4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat and cook the white and light green scallions until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
5. Stir in cumin and ¼ cup harissa and cook briefly.
6. Add tomatoes, lentils, and water, then simmer until chicken is cooked through.
7. Warm pita bread in the oven.
8. Mix yogurt with remaining harissa and lemon zest.
9. Stir lemon juice into soup before serving.
10. Serve topped with yogurt mixture and dark green scallions.
Notes
Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot harissa. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern–Inspired
Why Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup Works for Any Season
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup flavor profile and balance
This soup balances gentle heat with earthy cumin and the natural sweetness of tomatoes. Harissa adds warmth rather than overwhelming spice, allowing each ingredient to stay distinct. The result is a layered taste that feels comforting in winter and surprisingly light during warmer months.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup inspired by Middle Eastern kitchens
The inspiration comes from Middle Eastern–influenced cooking, where spices, legumes, and citrus often meet in one pot. Lemon zest and juice brighten the broth, while olive oil and scallions add savory depth. This approach keeps the soup aromatic and vibrant from the first spoonful to the last.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup as a high-protein meal
With lean chicken breasts and lentils, this dish delivers strong nutritional value. Each serving offers substantial protein and fiber, helping you feel full and energized. It works well as a standalone dinner without the need for extra sides.
Ingredients That Make Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup Exceptional
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup spice foundation
Ground cumin and harissa form the backbone of flavor. Cumin brings warmth and earthiness, while harissa contributes chili heat and complexity. Using a good-quality harissa paste makes a noticeable difference in aroma and color.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup protein and legumes
Skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender when simmered gently. Canned lentils keep preparation fast while providing a creamy texture that naturally thickens the broth. Together, they create a satisfying base without long cooking times.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup finishing elements
Greek yogurt mixed with harissa and lemon zest adds a cooling contrast. Fresh scallion greens and warm pita bread round out the bowl, offering freshness and texture that elevate the overall experience.
How to Cook Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup Perfectly
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup stovetop method
The soup begins by softening scallions in olive oil, followed by garlic for aroma. Chicken is browned lightly, then coated with spices and harissa to bloom their flavors. Tomatoes, lentils, and water are added, creating a broth that simmers gently until everything comes together.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup texture and timing
A short simmer keeps the chicken juicy and prevents the lentils from breaking down too much. The soup thickens naturally as it cooks, producing a hearty consistency without added starch.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup seasoning control
Seasoning is adjusted at the end, allowing you to balance salt, pepper, and acidity. A final splash of lemon juice sharpens the flavors and keeps the soup from tasting flat.
Serving and Pairing Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup toppings and garnishes
A spoonful of yogurt mixture on top adds creaminess and visual contrast. Dark green scallions provide a mild bite and fresh finish. These simple garnishes make each bowl feel complete.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup side dish ideas
Warm pita bread is a natural companion, perfect for scooping and soaking up the broth. If you enjoy exploring similar meals, you may also like hearty options such as tortellini soup with beef or a lighter bowl like creamy chicken and orzo soup.
Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup meal prep tips
This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Keep the yogurt topping separate until serving, and reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQ About Harissa Chicken Lentil Soup
moroccan chicken soup | jamie oliver
Many Moroccan-style chicken soups focus on warming spices, legumes, and fresh herbs. While this recipe is not a direct adaptation, it shares the same philosophy of building flavor through spices and balance rather than heavy ingredients.
Chicken harira soup recipe
Harira traditionally includes tomatoes, lentils, and spices, often with chickpeas and herbs. This soup echoes that structure while using chicken breasts and harissa for a modern, streamlined approach suitable for home cooks.
Is this soup very spicy and how can I adjust it?
The heat level depends on the harissa used. For milder results, reduce the amount slightly or choose a gentle variety. For more heat, add extra harissa at the table rather than during cooking.
Conclusion
Why this soup belongs in your weekly rotation
This recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It fits busy schedules, supports balanced eating, and adapts easily to personal taste.
Final thoughts on flavor and nutrition
With protein-rich ingredients, warming spices, and bright citrus notes, the soup offers both comfort and nourishment in every bowl.
Encouragement to cook and customize
Once you make it, you can adjust spice levels, garnishes, or sides to suit your preferences. This flexibility makes it a reliable favorite you will return to often.
For more successful recipes, you can visit our Pinterest account