Discover the heartwarming embrace of homemade comfort with this French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of earthy French green lentils, vibrant fresh greens, and a melody of spices that come together in a pot of pure deliciousness. Whether you’re hungry for a cozy vegetarian meal or craving a satisfying twist with shredded chicken, this soup offers the perfect balance of rich flavor, wholesome ingredients, and soul-soothing warmth. You’ll find it’s easy to make, wonderfully adaptable, and sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a key role in building the deep, comforting taste and perfect texture of the soup. From the tender French green lentils to the fragrant herbs and fresh greens, every component brings a vibrant note to this cozy dish.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that truly enhances the soup’s depth.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and classic aromatic flavor.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a warm, savory kick.
- French green lentils: The star ingredient that holds their shape beautifully and provide hearty texture and protein.
- Dried thyme: Offers gentle earthiness that complements the lentils perfectly.
- Bay leaf: Adds subtle complexity and warmth during cooking.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a mild smoky depth without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: The comforting liquid base that carries all flavors.
- Tomato paste: Adds a rich umami boost and slight acidity to brighten the soup.
- Fresh spinach or kale: Provides vibrant color, fresh taste, and added nutrition.
- Cooked shredded chicken (optional): Perfect for adding protein and a meaty twist if desired.
- Red wine vinegar or lemon juice: A splash of acidity to brighten and lift all the flavors just before serving.
How to Make French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gently cook the diced onion, carrots, and celery together until they become soft and fragrant, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation your soup needs for a rich, satisfying taste.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let these aromas bloom by cooking for an extra minute. This brief step is where the soup gains its signature warmth and complexity that will carry through every spoonful.
Step 3: Combine Lentils, Tomato Paste, Broth, and Bay Leaf
Add the rinsed French green lentils, bay leaf, tomato paste, and your choice of vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil before lowering the heat. Then, let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the lentils turn tender but still hold their shape beautifully.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Greens
If you’re using shredded chicken, stir it in now during the final 5 minutes of cooking to warm it through. After that, add your fresh spinach or kale and cook just until the greens wilt, which takes about 2 minutes. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant, making the soup both nutritious and visually inviting.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Acidity
Remove the bay leaf and finish the soup with a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice. This bright touch wakes up the flavors, balancing the earthiness of the lentils with a refreshing zing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, and your French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowl, consider topping your French Lentil Soup with a handful of freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few crunchy croutons also add delightful texture and flavor contrasts that complement the soup perfectly.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty rustic bread or a warm baguette, ideal for dipping and soaking up every drop. A fresh green salad or a light grain-based side like quinoa pilaf can round out the meal without overshadowing the soup’s rich, hearty essence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or colorful bowls that highlight its vibrant hues. Garnish each bowl with a swirl of crème fraîche or a few crunchy toasted seeds to add contrast and make mealtime feel celebratory and unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavors and wholesome texture for easy meals throughout the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully if you want to keep it longer. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm it evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup feels too thick. Avoid boiling it again to keep the greens vibrant and the lentils perfectly tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils instead of French green lentils?
Absolutely! While French green lentils are preferred for their firm texture, brown or green lentils can work as substitutes, though cooking times may vary and they might become softer.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply omit the shredded chicken and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegan version that still offers plenty of protein and flavor.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Simply add all ingredients except the greens and vinegar to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add the greens and vinegar during the last 15 minutes to maintain their freshness.
How can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker texture, blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in. This creates a creamy body without needing cream and retains all those rich flavors.
What’s the best way to flavor the soup if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or a small pinch of cumin will add warmth and depth. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for extra umami.
Final Thoughts
This French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe is one of those incredible dishes that makes you feel cozy, nourished, and joyfully satisfied all at once. Whether you enjoy it as a simple weeknight supper or a meal shared with friends, its delicious layers of flavor and comforting warmth will quickly make it a beloved classic in your kitchen. Don’t wait—grab those ingredients and get cooking. Your next bowl of happiness is just a simmer away!
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French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This French Lentil Soup recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as a vegetarian option or enriched with chicken for added protein. Featuring French green lentils simmered with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices, this comforting soup is perfect for any season. The addition of fresh spinach or kale adds vibrant color and extra nutrients, while a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice brightens the flavors. Serve warm with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Lentils and Seasonings
- 1½ cups French green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Liquids
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if using chicken)
Additions
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 6–8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add lentils and liquids: Incorporate the rinsed lentils, bay leaf, tomato paste, and vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Add chicken and greens: If using chicken, stir in the cooked shredded chicken during the last 5 minutes to warm through. Then add the chopped spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf, then stir in red wine vinegar or lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, optionally with crusty bread or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
