Warm up your kitchen and your taste buds with this delightful Chicken and Bean Soup, a comforting American classic that’s perfect for any day of the week! With just 35 minutes from prep to table, you can whip up a hearty meal that serves six, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Imagine savoring tender chicken, creamy white beans, and aromatic herbs all simmered to perfection—each spoonful is a hug in a bowl! Ready to discover how to create this deliciously easy recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add diced chicken breast to the pot, stirring to ensure even cooking. Season with salt and pepper. Cook chicken until it turns white and is no longer pink in the center, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add drained white beans to the pot. Sprinkle dried thyme over the mixture and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and garlic the night before. You can also dice the chicken and store it in the fridge, so everything is ready to go when you're ready to cook.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers. Just remember to remove it before serving!
- Bean Variations: While white beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other beans like kidney or black beans for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot before serving, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the simmering stage.
- Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, but you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice on top for added flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
