Cozy Chicken Split Pea Soup for Chilly Days (Easy Recipe)

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of chicken split pea soup wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug on a chilly day. The sight of vibrant green peas mingling with tender chicken and savory spices promises comfort in every spoonful.

This delightful dish takes me back to family gatherings where everyone gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting a bowl of this soul-soothing soup. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a pick-me-up, chicken split pea soup never fails to deliver amazing flavor that warms both heart and belly.

I remember the first time I served this at a family gathering; the silence was deafening as everyone savored each spoonful. Then came the compliments, followed by requests for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Split Peas: Use green or yellow split peas; they add a creamy texture and rich flavor to the soup.

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too if you want something leaner.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring a natural sweetness and beautiful color; choose firm ones for best results.

• Celery: Celery adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor; opt for crisp stalks for maximum freshness.

• Onions: Sweet onions provide a base layer of flavor; sauté them until translucent for the best results.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential; it brings an aromatic punch that elevates your soup’s taste.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness while adding depth of flavor.

• Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy note; it’s like a little herb hug in your bowl of soup.

• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves infuse wonderful depth during cooking; just remember to remove them before serving!

• Pepper and Salt: Season to taste; these basic ingredients can elevate your dish when balanced perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chicken split pea soup

Prepare the Base

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and throw in chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Next, toss in minced garlic along with diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything turns fragrant and vibrant. This step sets the stage for an explosion of flavor!

Combine Ingredients

Now, stir in rinsed split peas along with diced chicken thighs. Pour in your chicken broth and add dried thyme and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer.

Simmer Away

Let your soup simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally until the peas are tender and have softened into creamy goodness while also cooking down the chicken.

Check Consistency

After 45 minutes, check if your soup has reached that perfect thickness. If too thick, feel free to add more broth or water gradually while stirring.

Final Touches

Once ready, season with salt and pepper according to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving! Spoon into bowls and watch as smiles appear around your table.

Each step builds excitement as aromas fill your kitchen with warmth that beckons loved ones from all corners of the house—who doesn’t love a little kitchen magic?

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for maximum flavor, then add chicken to brown before adding peas and broth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add vegetables like carrots and celery to enhance flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of cozy winter evenings when my grandma would serve her famous soup, filling our home with love and warmth.

FAQ

Can I use dried split peas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just soak them overnight and adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I thicken my chicken split pea soup?

Blend a portion of the soup until smooth, then mix it back in for creaminess.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and tastes even better after being reheated.

Print

Chicken Split Pea Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm your soul with this hearty Chicken Split Pea Soup, perfect for chilly days. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant green peas, and aromatic spices creates a comforting dish that brings family together. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or yellow split peas
• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in rinsed split peas and diced chicken thighs. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme and bay leaves.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until peas are tender.
5. Check the consistency; if too thick, add more broth or water gradually.
6. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 11g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg