Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

French Lentil Soup (Vegetarian or with Chicken) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 22 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/french-lentil-soup-vegetarian-or-with-chicken-recipe/