Few dishes capture comfort and nourishment as perfectly as a Chicken and White Bean Soup. This delicious combination of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and fragrant herbs creates a warm, hearty meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for something soothing on a chilly night or a nutritious option for family dinner, this soup checks every box. In this article, you’ll learn the step-by-step method to prepare this flavorful Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe, explore creative variations, and gather tips to make it a highlight in your home collection of Cooking Light Soup Recipes.
A Bowl of Memories — How Chicken White Bean Soup Became a Family Staple
Every family has that one recipe that instantly brings everyone to the table—ours was Chicken White Bean Soup. I remember the first time my mother stirred a steaming pot of it on a frosty winter evening. The kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic and thyme mingling with tender chicken and creamy beans, creating a sense of instant calm after a long day. It wasn’t just soup—it was togetherness served in a bowl.
Over time, this Healthy Chicken White Bean Soup became a household tradition. Whenever friends visited or someone needed a comforting meal, this dish was always the answer. The balance of protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans made it both filling and wholesome—proof that comfort food can be good for you. It’s easy to see why this White Bean Chicken Soup Recipe is such a cherished part of so many Cooking Light Soup Recipes.
It represents more than a meal; it’s a connection to warmth, wellness, and home. Today, every spoonful still carries that memory of family laughter and the soothing sound of a simmering pot, reminding me that great recipes aren’t just about flavor—they’re about feeling.
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Chicken and White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty soup combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and aromatic herbs for a nutritious and comforting meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it delivers high protein and fiber in every bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Push vegetables aside and sear chicken breasts on both sides until golden.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot along with white beans and spinach.
6. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until flavors meld.
7. Stir in lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: soup
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 520
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 7
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: chicken and white bean soup, healthy chicken soup, white bean chicken soup, light soup recipes, soup recipes, chicken soup, bean soup, cooking light soup recipes
Why This Soup Works for Every Occasion
A bowl of Soup With Chicken And Beans fits beautifully into almost any moment. Need an easy weeknight dinner? This soup comes together with simple pantry staples. Hosting a casual weekend gathering? Its rustic flavor pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it both hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that comfortably transitions from lunch leftovers to a centerpiece on the dining table.
Beyond its versatility, the nutrition profile speaks for itself. With lean chicken breast as the primary protein and fiber-rich white beans as the foundation, each serving delivers lasting energy and supports a balanced diet. Vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach round out the mix, making it a complete meal in one comforting bowl.
What truly sets this recipe apart among Soup Recipes White Bean varieties is its simplicity and adaptability. You can swap in different herbs or add seasonal vegetables to match your taste or dietary needs. For health-conscious cooks, it’s a shining example of how nutritious food doesn’t have to sacrifice flavor.
Whether you’re seeking a quick, nourishing option after a long day or planning a wholesome weekend lunch, this Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe rises to every occasion—just as much a symbol of care as it is a celebration of taste.
The Complete Chicken and White Bean Soup Recipe
A comforting bowl of Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe begins with simple, wholesome ingredients and a few reliable kitchen tools. This section walks you through every step—from gathering your ingredients to achieving that perfect, savory flavor that defines a classic White Bean Chicken Soup Recipe. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this guide ensures consistent results every time.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Substitute with avocado oil |
| Yellow onion, chopped | 1 medium | Can use shallots for milder flavor |
| Carrots, peeled and sliced | 2 | Add more for sweetness |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 | Optional but enhances depth |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 | Adjust based on preference |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 pound (about 2 pieces) | Thighs can be used for richer flavor |
| White beans (cannellini or navy beans) | 2 cans (15 oz each), drained | Use dried beans soaked overnight for a rustic texture |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 6 cups | Vegetable broth for lighter or vegetarian base |
| Fresh spinach or kale | 2 cups | Optional greens for added nutrients |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Fresh thyme for stronger aroma |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf | Adds depth; remove before serving |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Adjust at the end |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightens flavors before serving |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons | Optional garnish |
Optional Add-ons:
| Add-On | Purpose / Flavor Note |
|---|---|
| Red pepper flakes | Adds subtle heat for those who like spice |
| Parmesan cheese | Balances acidity and adds creaminess |
| Cooked bacon bits | For a smoky finish |
| Pasta or rice | For a heartier meal |
Essential Tools: Large stockpot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, cutting board and knife, measuring cups and spoons, ladle for serving.
Cooking Steps for Perfect Flavor Every Time
- Prep and Sauté the Base: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent. Add garlic and stir for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Push vegetables aside, add the chicken breasts, and sear both sides 2–3 minutes until golden. This locks in flavor and moisture.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in broth, add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Shred and Combine: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the pot with white beans and spinach. Stir well.
- Adjust and Finish: Simmer an additional 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld. Finish with lemon juice and adjust seasoning.
- For creaminess, mash a portion of the beans before adding.
- Thicken by simmering uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
- Add herbs just before serving for freshness.
- Reheat gently on low heat to preserve balance.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
This Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe delivers balanced nutrition in every bowl—high in protein, full of fiber, and low in fat. It’s proof that Soup With Chicken And Beans can be both deeply satisfying and aligned with a health-conscious lifestyle.
Flavor Variations and Cooking Tips
Italian Chicken White Bean Soup — Mediterranean Goodness in a Bowl
If you love bold, rustic flavors, the Italian Chicken White Bean Soup is a Mediterranean twist worth trying. It captures the essence of Italian cooking—simple ingredients layered with herbs, olive oil, and fresh vegetables to create warmth and depth in every spoonful.
- Tomatoes: Add diced or fresh tomatoes to balance acidity and sweetness.
- Italian Herbs: Use oregano, basil, and rosemary for aromatic depth.
- Olive Oil Finish: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil before serving for a silky finish.
- Optional Kick: Add red pepper flakes for Tuscan-style spice.
Serve your Italian Chicken White Bean Soup with crusty sourdough or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The tomato-rich broth complements bread perfectly while the salad adds lightness. This variation brings together heart-healthy olive oil, antioxidant-rich tomatoes, and lean protein—a wholesome combination that turns every meal into Mediterranean comfort.
Healthy Cooking Tips for Lighter Versions
- Reduce Sodium: Choose low-sodium broth, enhance flavor with herbs and lemon instead of salt.
- Cut Fat: Use lean chicken breast or add olive oil after cooking for less fat with the same taste.
- Increase Vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or kale for color, nutrients, and texture.
- Experiment: Replace cannellini with navy or garbanzo beans, or add grains like quinoa or farro.
- Make It Vegan: Remove chicken, use vegetable broth, and add mushrooms or plant-based protein.
These mindful adjustments help you craft a Healthy Chicken White Bean Soup tailored to your fitness goals and flavor preferences. Whether traditional or reinvented, this dish remains a shining example of flavorful, balanced eating within Cooking Light Soup Recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried ones?
Yes! Canned beans are quick and convenient. Rinse and drain before adding to your Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe to reduce sodium and starch. For rustic texture, soak and cook dried beans instead.
2. How long does Chicken White Bean Soup last in the fridge?
Chicken White Bean Soup stays fresh up to five days refrigerated in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave on low to preserve texture and flavor.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian White Bean Chicken Soup Recipe, omit the chicken, use vegetable broth, and add mushrooms or extra beans. It’s still hearty and fits perfectly into Cooking Light Soup Recipes.
4. Can I freeze White Bean Chicken Soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add a splash of broth when reheating.
5. What side dishes go best with this soup?
This Soup With Chicken And Beans pairs with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light salad. For a fuller meal, try roasted vegetables or quinoa salad. Its mild, savory broth complements simple sides beautifully.
Conclusion — Bringing Comfort to Your Kitchen
Few dishes marry simplicity and comfort like a Chicken And White Bean Soup Recipe. Each spoonful blends tender chicken, creamy beans, and fragrant herbs for warmth that nourishes body and soul. It’s proof that healthy food can be both satisfying and fulfilling.
As a star in your Cooking Light Soup Recipes, it serves as both a cozy weeknight companion and a versatile dish for gatherings. Try different herbs or Italian twists—it will always bring heartwarming flavor and wholesome nutrition.
So gather your ingredients, fill your home with the aroma of simmering soup, and enjoy this Healthy Chicken White Bean Soup with loved ones. Delicious, balanced, and endlessly comforting, it’s a timeless favorite among Soup Recipes White Bean dishes and the ultimate way to savor Beans With Chicken season after season.
