If you are looking for a hearty, nourishing dish that warms the soul and fuels your body, this High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with wholesome vegetables, tender split peas, and shredded chicken breast, it’s the perfect blend of creamy texture and robust flavors. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly day or need a protein-packed meal, this soup delivers with every spoonful, making it a reliable kitchen favorite you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this soup right is all about simple, quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each item plays a vital role, from the earthy split peas providing protein and fiber to the aromatic herbs that deepen the flavor, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
- 1 cup split peas: These are the star of the dish, offering a rich source of protein and giving the soup its creamy base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with warm, savory notes.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provide a fresh, crisp undertone to balance the softness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a slightly minty, lemony flavor that complements the peas.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an earthy, piney aroma that enriches the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: Introduces a subtle layer of herbal complexity during simmering.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that melds everything together.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded: Packs in extra protein and satisfying texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk: Gives the soup a creamy finish without heaviness.
How to Make High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and pouring in the olive oil. This step ensures a hot surface to gently cook the onions and garlic, which form the aromatic foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook it until soft and translucent, roughly 5 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the natural sugars to release, giving you a sweet and mellow base.
Step 3: Build Flavor with Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, until its fragrance fills your kitchen, signaling that the flavors are unlocking beautifully.
Step 4: Add Veggies for Texture and Sweetness
Introduce diced carrots and chopped celery to the pot, cooking them for 3-4 minutes. These vegetables soften just enough to add texture and a pleasant sweetness that complements the earthiness of the peas.
Step 5: Season with Herbs
Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, giving everything a good stir. The herbs bring a lovely depth and warmth that elevates this classic soup into something memorable.
Step 6: Combine Peas and Broth
Add the split peas, bay leaf, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
Step 7: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, until the split peas are tender. Stir occasionally and add extra broth if needed to keep the consistency just right.
Step 8: Final Touches
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Then, fold in the shredded cooked chicken breast and the low-fat milk. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken heats through.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust
Give your soup a taste, adjusting salt and pepper if needed. This is your moment to perfect the balance and finish your High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe to your liking.
How to Serve High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives works wonders to brighten the soup’s appearance and add a fresh burst of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a few croutons can add delightful texture and richness, too.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty whole-grain bread, perfect for dipping and sopping up every creamy spoonful. A simple side salad with vinaigrette can also offer a crisp counterpoint to the hearty warmth of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in small mugs or even bread bowls to make your meal feel extra cozy. You could even top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers and remember to leave some space for expansion. Note that the milk might separate slightly upon thawing, so a gentle stir or reheat will bring it back together.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat to avoid scorching. Stir often and add a splash of broth or milk if it feels too thick, restoring that velvety texture you love.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the shredded chicken and use vegetable broth. You might also consider adding extra beans or tofu for protein while keeping the soup hearty and satisfying.
What if I don’t have dried herbs?
If fresh herbs are available, feel free to use those, adding them later in the cooking process to preserve their flavor. If you don’t have either, a pinch of dried Italian seasoning can work as a quick substitute.
How thick should the soup be?
The ideal consistency is thick and creamy but still spoonable without being too gloopy. Adjust the broth as needed during cooking to find the perfect balance based on your preference.
Can I use split pea flour instead of whole peas?
For this recipe, whole split peas are best because they break down slowly and lend a great texture. Split pea flour won’t give you the same body or the nutritional benefits from the fiber and protein.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats wonderfully and stays fresh in the fridge, making it a dependable, protein-packed choice for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this comforting and robust High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe in your culinary toolkit, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s truly one of those dishes that comforts you from the inside out while fueling your day with nourishing goodness. Whether for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend lunch, this soup is a winner every time.
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High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 15m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Classic Split Pea Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal, packed with tender split peas, shredded chicken breast, and a medley of aromatic vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, this soup combines the wholesome flavors of carrots, celery, and garlic with the richness of low-fat milk, delivering both taste and protein in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Protein and Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil to prepare the base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, enhancing flavor and sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, releasing its aroma into the mixture.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots and chopped celery, stirring them into the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Cook Vegetables: Allow the vegetables to soften slightly by cooking for 3-4 minutes, building the soup’s flavor base.
- Add Herbs: Sprinkle dried thyme and rosemary over the vegetables, mixing well to blend the herbs evenly.
- Add Main Ingredients: Stir in split peas, bay leaf, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper, preparing the soup for simmering.
- Bring to Boil: Increase heat to high to bring the mixture to a rolling boil before reducing heat.
- Simmer Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 40-45 minutes until the split peas are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Check Consistency: Monitor the thickness of the soup during simmering and add more broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
- Remove Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf once the peas have fully softened.
- Add Chicken: Stir in shredded cooked chicken breast to incorporate protein and texture into the soup.
- Pour Milk: Add low-fat milk to the mixture, stirring evenly to combine all flavors.
- Final Simmer: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat the chicken thoroughly and meld flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with additional salt or pepper as desired for balance.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs for added aroma and presentation.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth only.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the chicken and milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or water during simmering if the soup becomes too thick.
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme make excellent garnishes.
