If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that sings with complex flavors yet remains wonderfully approachable, this French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Combining tender French lentils with the smoky sweetness of fire-roasted tomatoes and red peppers, all elevated by fragrant herbs and perfectly cooked chicken, this soup is a masterpiece of comfort and nutrition. It’s a recipe that invites you in with its rich aromas and keeps you coming back for the beautiful, layered taste in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role to make this soup truly special. From the smoky spices to the vibrant roasted peppers and hearty lentils, everything works together to create a harmonious and delicious bowl of soup.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base flavor and helps sauté the aromatics smoothly.
- Butter (salted): Brings creaminess and depth to the soup’s base, balancing the spices.
- Sweet yellow onion: Provides a natural sweetness that mellows as it cooks down.
- Shallots: Offer a milder, more delicate onion flavor that enhances complexity.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the soup with a warm, aromatic bite that complements the spices.
- Ground coriander: Adds a touch of citrusy brightness, boosting the earthy lentils.
- Smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky note, partnering beautifully with the roasted peppers.
- Ground cumin: Lends a warm, nutty undertone essential for that cozy feel.
- Dried thyme and oregano: These classic herbs build layers of herby goodness throughout the soup.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes: The star ingredient for that comforting, smoky tomato flavor.
- Low sodium chicken broth: Serves as the flavorful liquid base, adjustable for preferred soup consistency.
- Roasted red peppers: Bring a sweet, smoky element with a vibrant splash of color.
- Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a tender bite, complementing the lentils perfectly.
- French lentils: The heart of the dish, offering a tender yet firm texture and earthy flavor.
- Bay leaves: Impart subtle, aromatic hints that deepen the overall flavor.
- Brown sugar: Balances acidity and amplifies the deep roasted flavors.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the soup with a gentle tang, lifting the richness beautifully.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Season the soup to perfection, bringing all elements together.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: Used at the end to add freshness and herbal vibrancy.
- Chicken tenders: Tender and quick-cooking protein that keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Egg white, cornstarch, and vinegar: Create a delicate coating for the chicken pieces, ensuring tenderness and a silky texture.
How to Make French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
Start by heating up olive oil and butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the diced sweet onion and finely minced shallots. Give them time to soften and turn a light golden color—about 8 to 10 minutes. This slow cooking builds an irresistible, flavorful foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices
Next comes the fragrant magic. Toss in the minced garlic along with ground coriander, smoked paprika, cumin, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together and let the spices bloom for around two minutes. This step is crucial—it unlocks the vibrant earthiness and complex layers that make this French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe so memorable.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and add the roasted red peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, diced carrots, rinsed lentils, bay leaves, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 40 to 50 minutes, allowing the lentils and vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
At this stage, take a moment to check the soup’s thickness. If you like a lighter, brothier texture, simply add more chicken broth. Give the soup a taste and tweak the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed to highlight its savory richness.
Step 5: Prepare the Chicken
While the soup simmers, it’s time to prepare the chicken. In a bowl, combine the egg white, cornstarch, vinegar, and a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Slice the chicken tenders into thin strips, removing any tendons, then toss them in the egg white mixture so each piece is gently coated. Let this sit for 20 to 30 minutes—this subtle marinade keeps the chicken tender and silky when cooked.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken in the Soup
When the soup is perfectly tender, rinse the coated chicken strips lightly under water using a strainer and tap to remove excess moisture. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer if needed, then add the chicken pieces, stirring quickly to separate them evenly. Cover the pot and turn off the heat, allowing the chicken to cook gently in the hot soup for 8 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy and infused with surrounding flavors.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Finally, uncover the soup and stir in freshly chopped rosemary or thyme. This last flourish adds a burst of herbal brightness that ties everything together. Serve with an extra sprinkle of herbs, and enjoy the warm satisfaction of your homemade French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe.
How to Serve French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley work beautifully as garnishes, adding a fresh pop of color and aromatic lift. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also enhance richness and creaminess without overpowering the nuanced flavors.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisanal bread or warm pita for dipping. A crispy green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty lentils and chicken with fresh crunch. For a fuller meal, consider a simple grain side like fluffy couscous or quinoa that complements without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe in individual rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added texture. You can also ladle it over a bed of wilted greens or into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the vibrant flavors and prevent the lentils from absorbing too much liquid. Give it a good stir before reheating for even consistency.
Freezing
French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months—perfect for quick, nourishing meals any day of the week.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to bring back the desired consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender and the lentils intact.
FAQs
Can I make this French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken tenders. The smoky peppers and spices make it delicious even without meat.
What kind of lentils are best for this soup?
French lentils, also known as Puy lentils, are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and have a rich, peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup’s other ingredients.
Can I use canned roasted red peppers instead of fresh?
Yes, canned roasted red peppers work perfectly and save prep time. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid diluting the soup’s flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked in the soup?
The chicken cooks gently in the simmering soup during the resting phase. After 8 minutes covered and off the heat, the chicken should be tender and fully cooked. If you’re unsure, you can check with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this soup spicier?
Definitely! Increase the smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes to meet your preferred spice level while keeping the soup’s balanced flavors.
Final Thoughts
This French Lentil Soup with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day but also impresses with its depth of flavor and texture. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and incredibly versatile—perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with each savory, smoky spoonful just like I have!
