Cozy Chicken Split Pea Soup Recipe for Chilly Evenings

Name: Chicken Split Pea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup green or yellow split peas; 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

February 4, 2026

Updated:

February 4, 2026

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of chicken split pea soup simmering on the stove. Picture this: a warm bowl filled with tender chicken, vibrant green peas, and an orchestra of spices dancing in harmony. It’s like a cozy hug for your insides, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.

You know that feeling when your grandma served up something so good that you felt like you were wrapped in a blanket of love? That’s exactly how chicken split pea soup makes me feel. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering of family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dive into this deliciousness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful chicken split pea soup offers an easy preparation method that even novice cooks can master
The flavor profile is rich and hearty, making it irresistible
Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any table spread
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed all year round!

I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t get enough of it! They kept asking for seconds and thirds until I had to hide the pot just to save some for myself.

Essential Ingredients

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

Split Peas: Go for green or yellow split peas based on your preference; both work beautifully in this recipe.
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These add rich flavor and tenderness; they hold up well during cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring color and sweetness; chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
Celery Stalks: Celery adds crunch and depth; use firm stalks for the best texture.
Onion: A sweet yellow onion works wonders; sauté until translucent to release its natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic addition.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the soup’s flavor base.
Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs infuse warmth and fragrance; fresh thyme is ideal if available.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences as it simmers.

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

Recipe preparation for chicken split pea soup

How to Make chicken split pea soup

Start by prepping your ingredients: Chop your vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and looks inviting in your bowl.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions turn translucent and release a sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Chicken: Stir in minced garlic and diced chicken thighs. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides—don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet.

Add Split Peas and Broth: Pour in rinsed split peas along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—let those flavors mingle!

Add Seasonings : Toss in thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor. Lower the heat to simmer gently for about 45 minutes or until peas are tender.

Finish with Blending (Optional): If you prefer a creamy texture, use an immersion blender here to purée part of the soup while leaving some chunks intact for heartiness.

Serve steaming hot with crusty bread on the side—the perfect complement!

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe for chicken split pea soup, get ready to impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!

You Must Know

Chicken split pea soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul
The combination of tender chicken and creamy split peas creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add the chicken, browning it before introducing the split peas and broth. This sequence builds layers of flavor for a rich soup.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost that personalizes the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding water if needed to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance your chicken split pea soup, use homemade broth for richer flavor
Always rinse split peas before cooking to remove debris
Let the soup sit after cooking; flavors deepen as it cools

It was a chilly evening when I first made chicken split pea soup, and my friends raved about it! Their smiles warmed my heart as much as the soup did.

FAQ

Can I use dried split peas instead of canned?

Yes, dried split peas work best but need soaking before cooking.

What type of chicken should I use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give great flavor and tenderness to the soup.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace chicken with vegetables and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

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