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Hearty White Bean Soup with Chicken - Comfort in a Bowl

Hearty White Bean Soup with Chicken - Comfort in a Bowl
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 pound cooked chicken breast shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup kale chopped (optional)
  • Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving optional

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 Measuring cups
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Can opener
  • 1 Ladle
  • 1 Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, white beans, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. If using kale, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Storage & Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with more vegetables and use vegetable broth.
- Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Incorporate different greens like spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale.
- Season with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with croutons or shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.