Chicken soup with white beans and kale is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a bowl filled with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and vibrant green kale, all simmered to perfection. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a cozy invitation, making it impossible to resist. For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Cabbage Soup Recipe recipe.
This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family on a particularly rainy evening. We gathered around the table, laughter echoing as spoons clinked against bowls, each bite warming our souls. Whether you’re seeking solace on a gloomy day or simply want to impress guests with your culinary skills, this chicken soup is bound to create unforgettable moments. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken soup with white beans and kale is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The rich flavors blend perfectly together while offering a nutritious boost that everyone will appreciate.
- Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing and inviting.
- Plus, you can easily customize the ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have available in your pantry.
Ingredients for Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best for this recipe; adjust based on your needs.
- Fresh Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic for an aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor.
- Large Onion: A medium onion adds depth; chop it finely to ensure even cooking.
- Carrots: Two medium carrots bring sweetness and color; slice them into rounds for even cooking.
- Kale: One bunch of fresh kale provides nutrition; remove the stems and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Canned White Beans: Use two cans of drained white beans for creaminess; great options include cannellini or great northern beans.
- Chicken Broth: Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth keeps the soup flavorful without being overly salty. flavorful sautéed bok choy.
- Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons of olive oil is essential for sautéing vegetables and enhancing flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples! Season to taste as you go along.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, toss in chopped onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté until fragrant and onions turn translucent—about five minutes.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next, add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer Away
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about twenty minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. With two forks (or your hands if you’re feeling bold), shred them into bite-sized pieces before returning them back into the pot.
Step 5: Incorporate Beans and Kale
Now comes the fun part! Stir in drained white beans and chopped kale into your bubbling concoction. Allow everything to simmer together for another ten minutes until the kale wilts down nicely.
Step 6: Taste Test & Serve
Give your soup one last taste test before serving—adjust salt or pepper as needed! Ladle into bowls while admiring this colorful masterpiece before you dig in.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch—or maybe just enjoy it straight from the pot if no one’s watching!
Now you’ve created an incredible chicken soup with white beans and kale that will not only warm you up but also nourish your soul! Enjoy every spoonful—it’s practically therapy in a bowl!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
- Packed with nutrients and flavor, it makes for an easy weeknight dinner and an excellent option for cozy gatherings.
- The vibrant colors and aromas will make your kitchen feel like a comforting haven.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to sear. While that’s happening, toss in the carrots and celery. Next, stir in your broth and beans before simmering with kale until everything melds beautifully together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix things up! Swap out kale for spinach or chard, use navy beans instead of white beans, or throw in some diced tomatoes for added flavor. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it appears too thick.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make this Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale truly shine, remember to season as you go; it builds layers of flavor.
- Also, don’t skip the fresh herbs—they’re essential!
- Finally, let it sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld beautifully.
Cooking this soup takes me back to when I first made it for my family during a snowstorm. The smiles around the table were worth every chop of the knife!
FAQs:
What are the main ingredients in Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale?
The main ingredients in Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale include chicken, white beans, kale, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. These ingredients combine to create a hearty and nutritious soup. The chicken provides protein, while the white beans add fiber. garlic butter chicken bites Kale is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only filling but also beneficial for your health. Seasonings like thyme and bay leaves enhance the flavor, ensuring each bowl is comforting and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale?
Preparing Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time followed by 30 to 40 minutes of cooking time. This means you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in under an hour. The quick preparation process involves chopping vegetables and sautéing them before adding the other ingredients. delicious chicken pasta salad recipe Once everything is combined in the pot, let it simmer until the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Can I make Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale in advance?
Yes, you can definitely make Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale in advance. This soup actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors deepen. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the kale until you’re ready to consume it for optimal texture upon reheating.
Is Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale healthy?
Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale is indeed a healthy choice! It is low in calories yet high in nutrients due to its combination of lean chicken, legumes, and leafy greens. The white beans provide fiber which aids digestion, while kale offers antioxidants that support overall health. This soup is also hydrating thanks to its broth base, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion for Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale:
In conclusion, Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale is a nourishing dish that combines wholesome ingredients into a delightful meal. With its quick preparation time and ability to be made ahead of time, this recipe fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. Enjoying this soup not only satisfies hunger but also delivers essential nutrients beneficial for your well-being. Try this hearty recipe today for a comforting bowl of goodness!
Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Chicken Soup with White Beans and Kale is the perfect remedy for chilly days. Featuring tender chicken, creamy white beans, and vibrant kale, this soup delivers a rich flavor profile that nourishes both body and soul. Easy to prepare, it’s a delightful weeknight dinner option that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 bunch kale, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained (cannellini or great northern)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions, garlic, and sliced carrots; sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in enough chicken broth to cover. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Incorporate Beans and Kale: Stir in drained white beans and chopped kale. Let everything simmer for another 10 minutes until the kale wilts.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before ladling into bowls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Swap kale for spinach or chard for different textures; feel free to add diced tomatoes for extra richness. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.



