What is it like to have a bowl of warm soup on an chilly evening? What are some of the best soups to make?Chicken Bean Soup: What are someWhat’s a hug in the bowl? What is a chicken noodle soup? The creamy beans, tender chicken, and savory broth make it so much more satisfying. What is that one meal that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out? Growing up, my grandma would always make a big pot of this, and the smell would fill the whole pot. I can still remember sneaking spoonfuls before dinner was even ready – it’s *that* good!

What is chicken bean soup?

Okay, so Chicken bean soup is basically the coziest, most comforting soup you can imagine. Think of it as a creamy, hearty version of chicken noodle soup, but instead of noodles, we’re loading it up with delicious, protein-packed beans. It’s essentially a celebration of simple ingredients cooked together to create something truly special. It’s a super versatile dish, too. You can use different kinds of beans, add veggies you love, and even tweak the spices to your liking. The beauty of this soup is that it’s forgiving – it’s hard to mess up! And it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Honestly, it’s a staple in my house, especially during the colder months.

Why you will love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to fall in love with someone.Chicken Bean Soup: What are your. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible! It’s savory, comforting, and has just the right amount of depth. The chicken and beans create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, you can throw everything into one pot and let it simmer away. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. Chicken and beans are budget-friendly ingredients that stretch really far, making this a great meal for feeding a crowd or just making sure you have leftovers for lunch. Speaking of leftovers, the flavor actually gets even better the next day! And don’t forget its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, spices, and even different types of beans. If you’re a fan of chili or creamy tomato soup, this Chicken Bean Soup: What are someIs this right up your alley? It offers that same level of comfort and heartiness, but with a slightly lighter, more refreshing. What are some of the best recipes to make for a healthy meal? My kids beg for it!

How do I make chicken bean soup?

Quick Overview

Making this Chicken Bean Soup: What are some is surprisingly easy! Basically, you’ll start by sautéing some veggies to build a flavor base, then add in your beans, chicken, broth, and spices. Let it simmer until everything is nice and tender, and that’s it! The best part is that you can easily adapt this recipe to use what you have on hand. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken to make it even quicker. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beans – cannellini, kidney, or even black beans would work beautifully. I promise, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can totally nail this recipe!

Ingredients

For the Base:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing the veggies and adds a nice richness. I always use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* 1 onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the soup. Yellow or white onions work perfectly.
* 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and color. I prefer to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
* 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a slightly peppery flavor that complements the other veggies.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must! Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

For the Soup:
* 6 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level. How do you make homemade chicken stock?
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this! Can you make grilled or Baked Chicken?
Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: 1 (15-ounce) can. Cannellini beans are my favorite because they’re creamy and mild. Can you use any type of bean you like?
* 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained: These add a different texture and flavor compared to cannellini beans. If you only have one type of bean, that’s totally fine too!
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly floral flavor that complements the chicken and beans.
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a piney, aromatic flavor that enhances the complexity of soup.
* Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! How do I adjust the salt and pepper in soup?

Optional Garnish
* Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and color.
* Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the soup.
* Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping!

How do I get

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a Dutch Oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the onion, carrots, celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the carrots to be slightly tender. Don’t rush this step – allowing the veggies to soften properly helps develop the flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme and dried rosemary to the pot. Cook another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. What is the best way to cook garlic? What is the aroma of garlic and spices in your kitchen?

Step 3: Add Broth, Chicken, and Beans

If you have a large pot of chicken broth, pour it into it, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. What is the best way to add flavor to a Add the cooked chicken, cannellini beans, and great northern beans. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I often let it simmer for a couple of hours on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Season and Serve

What is your favorite soup recipe? Season with salt and pepper. What are some ways to add salt to a dish? Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon juice. What are some good side dishes to serve with crusty bread?

What should I serve it with?

This Chicken Bean Soup: What are some is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments. It’s a really versatile soup, so you can serve it with a variety of different things depending on the occasion.

For a Light Lunch: Can I eat itWhat is a good side salad with olive oil and vinaigrette? What are some good contrasts between the greens and the creamy broth?What is a hearty dinner?Serve with grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. I love making mini grilled cheese sandwiches with different types of cheese – it’s a fun way to add flavor to your sandwich.For a Cozy Night In: Pair with a glass of red wine and a good book. There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch with a warm bowl of soup and a glass of wine on a cold winter night.

For a Potluck: This soup is always a hit at potlucks! Serve it with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, Sour Cream, and chopped green onions, so everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.

My family always loves it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. It’s such a simple addition, but it really elevates the flavor.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Bean Soup

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that really take this chicken bean soup to the next level. Here are some of my top tips for perfecting your soup:

Use High-Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup, so it’s important to use a good quality one. I prefer low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the salt level. If you have the time, homemade chicken stock is even better!

Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth helps develop the flavor of the soup. Make sure to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re softened and slightly caramelized.

Add a Touch of Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar brightens up the flavors of the soup and adds a nice zing. I usually add it right before serving.

Use Different Types of Beans: Experiment with different types of beans to find your favorite combination. Cannellini beans, great northern beans, kidney beans, and black beans all work well in this soup.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: If you’re using cooked chicken, add it towards the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t dry out. Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for this!

Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a generous pinch of salt and pepper – it really makes a difference!

Make It Creamy: For a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids!

One time, I accidentally added too much salt to the soup, and it was almost ruined. I saved it by adding a peeled potato and letting it simmer for a while. The potato absorbed the excess salt and saved the day! It’s one of those lessons you never forget.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This chicken bean soup is perfect for making ahead of time or storing leftovers. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your soup:

Room Temperature: You should not leave the soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s important to refrigerate or freeze the soup as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: You can reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. To reheat on the stovetop, bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. To reheat in the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

I usually make a big batch of this soup on Sunday and store it in individual containers in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week. It’s such a time-saver!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dry beans instead of canned beans?

Yes, you can use dry beans instead of canned beans. You’ll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. It will add to the cooking time, but it’s definitely worth it in terms of flavor and texture. I like to use about 1 cup of dry beans for this recipe, which yields about 2 cups of cooked beans.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a great option for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables to this soup, such as potatoes, zucchini, spinach, or kale. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes and zucchini at the same time as the beans. Add leafy greens like spinach and kale towards the end of the cooking time so they don’t get overcooked.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the chicken. You can add extra beans or vegetables to make it more filling. For a vegan version, make sure to check the ingredients of your broth to ensure it doesn’t contain any animal products.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?

If your soup is too thick, you can add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Start with a small amount of broth and gradually add more until it’s just right.

Final Thoughts

This chicken bean soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a memory, a hug, and a taste of home all in one bowl. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. I truly hope you give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! And if you’re looking for other comforting soup recipes, be sure to check out my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Hearty Vegetable Stew. They’re both family favorites! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your soup turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you have any tips or variations of your own, I’d love to hear them. Share your creations on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see what you come up with!