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My White Bean Chicken Soup started as a way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and has become our favorite comfort food. The combination of creamy beans tender chicken and fresh dill creates something truly magical. My kitchen fills with the most incredible aroma as it simmers making everyone ask when dinner will be ready.
More Than Just Chicken Soup
This isn't your ordinary chicken soup. That bright pop of lemon and fresh dill transforms it into something special. Plus it comes together so quickly especially with rotisserie chicken making it perfect for busy evenings or when someone's feeling under the weather.
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What You'll Need
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing vegetables.
- Chicken Stock: 6 cups, for a savory soup base.
- Shredded Chicken: 2 cups, preferably rotisserie or leftover chicken.
- Veggies: 2 carrots, 1 onion, and 2 celery stalks, diced, for a classic mirepoix base.
- Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh dill and 1 bay leaf, for brightness and depth.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for a savory boost.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, for a tangy finish.
- Jalapeño: 1, diced (optional), for a hint of spice.
- White Beans: 2 cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, for creaminess.
- Swiss Chard: 2 cups, chopped, for a nutrient-packed addition.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Parmesan Cheese: For garnish, optional but highly recommended.
Let's Make It Together
- Build Your Base
- Get those veggies cooking in olive oil until they're soft and fragrant.
- Add the Good Stuff
- Pour in your broth chicken and beans letting everything come together.
- Let It Simmer
- Give it time to develop those wonderful flavors.
- Finish Strong
- Add that bright lemon and tender chard right at the end.
- Make It Special
- Top each bowl with fresh dill and parmesan.
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Make It Perfect
Don't skip the fresh dill and lemon they make all the difference. Try mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot to make the broth extra creamy. And that optional jalapeño adds such a nice warmth without too much heat.
Perfect Pairings
A chunk of crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. Sometimes I'll make a quick green salad on the side but honestly this soup is a complete meal on its own.
Keep It Fresh
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge making it perfect for meal prep. Just warm it gently when you're ready to eat adding a fresh squeeze of lemon to brighten it up again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different beans?
Yes, great northern or navy beans work well as substitutes for cannellini beans.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days. The soup often tastes even better the next day.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
- → Can I use other greens?
Kale, spinach or other leafy greens can replace Swiss chard. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- → How spicy is it?
The jalapeño is optional. Remove seeds and membranes for mild heat or omit entirely for no heat.
Conclusion
A warming soup that blends tender shredded chicken with creamy white beans and fresh vegetables, enhanced by a bright lemon and herb-infused broth.