For the cozy nights or when you just need a hug in a bowl, nothing hits the spot quite like my split pea and chicken soup. This hearty, comforting dish brings together the rich, earthy flavors of split peas with the wholesome goodness of chicken, creating a delightful symphony of tastes and textures that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or seeking a nutritious meal that feels like home, this soup promises to deliver both warmth and wellness in every spoonful. Join me as we dive into this delicious blend, perfect for any day of the year!
How To Make Split Pea And Chicken Soup?
Recipe Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Yield: 6 people
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté The Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook The Peas
Add the split peas, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
Step 3: Add The Chicken
Stir in the cooked chicken and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaves.
Step 4: Adjust The Texture
For a creamier soup, use a blender to puree part of the soup, then mix it back in. Adjust the seasoning with salt.
Nutrition Facts Of Split Pea And Chicken Soup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fiber: 15 g
Tips And Variations Of Split Pea And Chicken Soup
Ham Bone: For extra flavor, cook the soup with a ham bone, then remove it before blending.
Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with cubed potatoes or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Health Benefits Of Split Pea And Chicken Soup
This soup is high in fiber and protein while being low in fat, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Special Note
Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup by varying the amount of broth. The peas tend to thicken the soup as they cook, so add more broth if needed.
Why Is My Split Pea Soup Not Mushy?
If your split pea soup isn’t mushy, it might be because the peas haven’t cooked long enough. Peas take time to break down completely.
I suggest simmering them longer, checking every 15 minutes until they reach the desired consistency. Sometimes, older peas can take longer to cook, so freshness matters.
Also, hard water can slow down cooking. If you suspect that’s the case, try adding a pinch of baking soda to the water. Make sure to use enough liquid and stir occasionally to help the peas break down evenly.
Conclusion
This Split Pea and Chicken Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any season. The combination of tender chicken, creamy split peas, and aromatic herbs creates a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Â
It’s easy to prepare and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Enjoy this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. I hope you find this recipe as delightful and fulfilling as I do, and it becomes a staple in your kitchen!
Split Pea And Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Ingredients Â
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
6 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Salt, to taste
InstructionsÂ
Step 1: Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook The Peas
- Add the split peas, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
Step 3: Add The Chicken
- Stir in the cooked chicken and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaves.
Step 4: Adjust The Texture
- For a creamier soup, use a blender to puree part of the soup, then mix it back in. Adjust the seasoning with salt.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.