Did you know the average American only spends 20 minutes making chicken white bean soup? Yet, it packs up to 360 calories of warmth per serving. This soup is a mix of creamy chicken broth, soft white beans, and tasty veggies. It’s perfect for when it’s cold outside.

This creamy chicken soup makes about eight servings. It’s easy to make, whether you use shredded rotisserie chicken or cook it fresh. You can add garlic, celery, and chicken broth for extra flavor. It’s a true comfort food.

This soup is special because you can make it your own. Pick your favorite white beans and add spices to taste. A bit of red pepper flakes can add spice, and Parmesan cheese makes it richer.

If you want a comforting meal that’s easy to make, try this soup. It’s not just tasty; it’s also good for you. The cannellini beans in it help your gut and boost your immune system. Serve it with homemade sourdough bread for a complete cozy meal.

Why Chicken White Bean Soup Is My Go-To Comfort Food

When it gets cold outside, nothing warms me up like chicken white bean soup. It’s my favorite comfort food for many reasons. Its creamy texture and rich flavors remind me of cozy times. Whether I’m reading on the couch or eating with family, this soup always brings comfort.

Chicken and bean soup is not only tasty but also healthy. It has 33 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber in each serving. This makes it a filling and nutritious dinner choice.

This soup is also versatile and low in calories. With only 394 calories per serving and little saturated fat, it’s guilt-free. It has 775 mg of sodium, which is easy to manage for those watching their sodium.

The aroma of this soup cooking is amazing. It fills the kitchen and invites everyone to dinner. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy days. Using pre-cooked chicken makes it even quicker.

This soup brings back happy memories of family dinners and cozy nights. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. That’s why it’s always my first choice.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Soup

Making a delicious white beans in chicken soup begins with picking top-notch ingredients. Each part adds flavor and texture, making the dish comforting.

Choosing the Right White Beans

I always choose cannellini beans for this soup. Their creamy texture makes the soup feel richer. I use 3 cans, totaling 45 oz, for the perfect consistency.

Best Cuts of Chicken to Use

I prefer chicken breast for its lean protein and soft texture. Using 2 pounds of chicken breast or tenders adds plenty of meat. It also pairs well with the cannellini beans, making each spoonful a joy.

Key Aromatics and Seasonings

The success of a soup depends on its aromatics and seasonings. I start with diced carrots and celery (1 cup each) and sauté them with 4 tablespoons of butter. Then, I add 1 white onion and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic for a great aroma.

For seasonings, I mix 2 teaspoons each of rosemary, thyme, and sage. This blend makes the soup hearty and flavorful. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper add to the taste.

In summary, choosing these ingredients makes every bowl of white beans in chicken soup special. The creamy cannellini beans, tender chicken, and perfect seasonings all come together. This creates a soup that’s both nourishing and tasty.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

Making a tasty chicken white bean soup needs the right tools and ingredients. A strong dutch oven is key for even heat, which is vital for simmering soups.

Here are the kitchen tools you’ll need for easy prep:

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife for chopping veggies.
• Cutting board: Keeps your counter safe and makes chopping easier.
• Food prep containers: Organize and store prepped ingredients.
• Bench scraper: Transfers chopped veggies to the pot easily.
• Wooden spoons: Stir ingredients without scratching the dutch oven.

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need for kitchen prep:

Using olive oil is a must. I add about 2 tablespoons to sauté garlic, veggies, and chicken. It really boosts their flavors.

A good quality dutch oven is essential. It ensures your soup cooks evenly and flavors blend well. Having these tools will help you make a delicious chicken white bean soup.

Preparing Your Ingredients

A great Chicken White Bean Soup starts with good prep. From soaking beans to cutting veggies, the prep is key. It makes your meal delicious and filling.

Proper Bean Soaking Methods

First, get your beans ready. I soak mine overnight for the best texture. This cuts down cooking time and makes the beans soft.

Rinse the beans well, then soak them in water. The water should cover the beans by two inches. Soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Chicken Preparation Tips

Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for better flavor and moisture. Trim any fat and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.

When cooking, sauté the chicken on medium-high heat for 5 minutes. This makes it juicy and flavorful.

Vegetable Cutting Techniques

Cutting veggies evenly is important for even cooking. You’ll need to finely chop onions, carrots, and celery. Use a sharp knife for a quarter-inch dice.

Sauté the chopped veggies in olive oil until they’re soft. This takes about 8 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.

With these steps, you’re ready to make a tasty chicken white bean soup. These tips are essential for great flavors and textures.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking chicken soup might seem hard, but it’s easy once you know the steps. My method makes a flavorful, creamy soup great for any time of year.

First, get all your ingredients ready. For this soup, you’ll need:

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans of Great Northern beans
• 20 ounces of chicken broth
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons of chopped garlic
• 12 sprigs of cilantro
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1 chile (4 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 8 cups of chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons of avocado oil

Start by chopping your veggies. Sauté the onion and garlic in avocado oil for 10 minutes. They should soften and smell great. This step is key for the soup’s flavor.

Then, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Brown them for 5 to 7 minutes. This step adds a rich taste to the soup.

Next, add the chicken broth, beans, and spices. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Simmer for about 20 minutes. This makes the beans tender and the chicken fully cooked.

Finish by making the soup creamy. Mash some beans against the pot and stir well. This thickens the soup without adding cream.

Season to taste and let the soup rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.

Cooking chicken soup this way takes about 1 hour, including prep. Each serving has about 458 calories, making it a healthy meal.

By following these steps, you’ll get a delicious, flavorful soup. It’s perfect for a cozy meal at home.

Perfecting Your Chicken White Bean Soup

Making a perfect Chicken White Bean Soup is both an art and a science. The basic steps are easy, but the final touches can really make a difference. Here’s how to fine-tune your soup, add extra flavor, and fix common issues.

Adjusting Seasoning and Consistency

Start by tasting your soup at different cooking stages. Feel free to add more salt or pepper as needed. A squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the flavors.

If your soup is too thick, add chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it to reduce the liquid. But be careful not to overcook the veggies.

Adding Extra Flavor Elements

Boosting your soup’s flavor is easy. Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill in the last minutes of cooking. A splash of vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also be great.

For a richer taste, consider adding a couple of chicken bouillon cubes. The goal is to taste and adjust until it’s just right.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fixing cooking problems is easy. If your veggies are undercooked, just add more cooking time. About 10 to 12 minutes usually does the trick.

If your soup tastes bland, try adding more aromatics like garlic or onions early on. Or finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Enjoying a warm bowl of chicken white bean soup is special. Whether it’s right after cooking or later, how you serve and store it matters. Here are some tips to enhance your meal and keep your soup fresh longer.

Perfect Pairings

Pairing your soup with sides can turn a meal into a feast. For chicken white bean soup, here are some great soup pairings:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread slice is perfect for dipping.
• Light Salads: A tangy salad can balance the soup’s richness.
• Paninis and Sandwiches: Try grilled cheese, turkey, or tomato basil paninis for a tasty twist.
• Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chianti complements the soup’s flavors well.

Freezing and Reheating Guidelines

Storing and reheating your soup right is key to keeping its taste and texture. Here are some storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Cool leftover soup to room temperature before refrigerating. It stays good for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
• Freezing: The soup freezes well. Use airtight containers and leave space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on low heat, stirring often. For microwaving, stir halfway through to heat evenly.

By following these chicken soup storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken white bean soup at its best any time.

Conclusion: Making This Soup Your Family Favorite

As we finish this cooking journey, let’s think about the joy of adding Chicken White Bean Soup to your family’s meals. It’s both comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for any meal. It’s perfect for a weekend or a quick dinner, and it’s a great way to bond with your family.

This soup is loved by all ages because of its delicious taste and health benefits. For example, it has about 15 grams of protein from cannellini beans per cup. Beans also help with digestion and keep you full longer. Fire-roasted tomatoes add even more goodness, with antioxidants that help your heart and fight cancer.

To make this soup a hit with your family, get everyone involved in cooking. From soaking beans to chopping veggies and simmering the broth, it’s a fun way to spend time together. It teaches cooking skills and creates lasting memories. Plus, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for 3 months. Serve it with sourdough or cornbread for a complete, comforting meal.

FAQ

Chicken White Bean Soup

Chicken white bean soup is a creamy, hearty soup made with tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and flavorful veggies. It's a comforting dish that is quick to make, perfect for cold weather. The soup can be customized with spices and herbs to suit personal preferences and is both nourishing and satisfying.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 28 minutes mins

Total Time 44 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 458 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
• 2 14.5-ounce cans of Great Northern beans
• 20 ounces of chicken broth
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons of chopped garlic
• 12 sprigs of cilantro
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1 chile 4 ounces
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 8 cups of chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons of avocado oil

Instructions

 

• Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in avocado oil for 10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Add the chicken breasts to the pot and brown them for 5 to 7 minutes.
• Add chicken broth, beans, and spices. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the beans are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
• Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the soup without adding cream.
• Season to taste and let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

• You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to speed up the cooking process.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• To make the soup richer, consider adding a couple of chicken bouillon cubes or fresh herbs like parsley or dill in the last few minutes of cooking.
• If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Keyword Chicken white bean soup, creamy, hearty, comfort food, easy, nutritious, healthy, homemade, chicken broth, cannellini beans, quick meal, winter soup, comfort food