Chicken And Split Pea Soup Recipe

Chicken and split pea soup is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style. Whether you’re in the middle of a cold winter, fighting off a nasty cold, or simply craving something warm and hearty, this soup checks all the boxes. It’s a one-pot wonder, rich in flavor, packed with nutrients, and so satisfying you’ll want to make it over and over again. The smooth, earthy flavor of split peas pairs perfectly with tender chicken, making it both nutritious and delicious. This recipe isn’t just about creating a meal; it’s about crafting a heartwarming experience that fills your kitchen with the kind of smells that make everyone look forward to the next meal.

So, if you’re ready to dive into a bowl of comfort, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you need to make this amazing soup!

Chicken And Split Pea Soup Recipe

This classic soup combines lean chicken, hearty split peas, and a handful of aromatic vegetables, all simmered to perfection. The result is a rich, creamy texture (without actually being cream-based) and a delightful depth of flavor that feels just like home.

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves: 6-8 servings

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of this soup is in the simplicity of its ingredients. You don’t need any exotic or hard-to-find components-just a few pantry staples and fresh vegetables, and you’re good to go. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer more flavor and tenderness)

• Split Peas

  • 1 ½ cups dried split peas (green or yellow, depending on your preference)

• Vegetables

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Herbs & Spices

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, but it adds a lovely color and depth)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Broth

  • 6 cups chicken broth (you can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option or low-sodium if you’re watching sodium intake)

• Additional Items

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Making chicken and split pea soup is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of hearty goodness in no time:

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.

2. Add Garlic & Spices

   Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, bay leaves, and turmeric (if using). Stir everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

3. Add The Split Peas & Broth

   Pour in the dried split peas and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the peas are tender and begin to break down. Stir occasionally.

4. Add The Chicken

   While the peas are cooking, heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper, then cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. You can also poach the chicken directly in the soup if you prefer.

5. Shred The Chicken

   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot, shred it using two forks, and set aside.

6. Finish The Soup

   Once the split peas are tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Season And Serve

   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Discard the bay leaves, and then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve hot.

Ingredient Insights

• Split Peas: These little legumes are the star of the dish. Rich in fiber and protein, they help to thicken the soup while adding an earthy, subtle sweetness. Split peas cook relatively quickly compared to other dried legumes, making them a great choice for soups. Plus, they are affordable and shelf-stable, so you can keep them in your pantry for months.
• Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breast makes the soup lean, but if you opt for chicken thighs, you’ll get a richer, juicier flavor. You can use bone-in chicken for even more depth, but keep in mind it will need a little more cooking time.
• Broth: Homemade chicken broth is ideal if you have the time, but store-bought broth works just as well. You can control the sodium level by choosing low-sodium options, or even making your own broth to fit your tastes. A good broth is essential for bringing all the flavors together in this soup.
• Vegetables: The onions, carrots, and celery add not only flavor but texture to the soup. Together, they create a “mirepoix”, the base of many French dishes, offering a savory balance that complements the split peas and chicken perfectly.

Expert Tips

1. Use Bone-In Chicken

   If you want a soup with even more depth of flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. The bones will infuse the broth with more richness and body.

2. Soak The Split Peas

   While not necessary, soaking the split peas for a few hours before cooking can help them soften faster and even reduce some of the potential gassiness that dried peas might cause.

3. Blend For Creaminess

   If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup once the peas are tender. This gives the soup a creamy texture without needing to add any cream!

4. Add A Touch Of Acid

   A small squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar right before serving can brighten the flavors and balance out the richness of the broth.

5. Make It Ahead

   Soups like this often taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. Make it in advance, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version

  Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or kale to keep it hearty. You could even add some white beans for extra protein.

• Spicy Kick

  If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. This adds a nice balance to the natural sweetness of the split peas.

• Herb Twist

  Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or sage during the simmering process for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs can be added toward the end to keep their flavor fresh and vibrant.

• Coconut Chicken Split Pea Soup

  Add a can of coconut milk to the broth for a creamy, slightly tropical variation. The coconut flavor complements the split peas and chicken beautifully, offering a more exotic version of this comfort food.

Final Words

Chicken and split pea soup is one of those dishes that brings warmth and satisfaction no matter the occasion. It’s nourishing, comforting, and simple enough to make even on the busiest of days. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and earthy split peas creates a harmony of flavors that is bound to please everyone at the table.

Plus, it’s a versatile recipe-you can adjust the ingredients and seasonings based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this soup will never disappoint.