Chicken Bean Soup Easy Recipe

There’s something about a warm, hearty soup that feels like home. It’s comforting, filling, and can be whipped up in no time – especially when you’re craving something quick and healthy. Chicken Bean Soup is one of those dishes that combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken, creamy beans, and a savory broth that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or something to cozy up with on a chilly day, this easy chicken bean soup recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

The great thing about this soup is its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry, making it super customizable. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and simple Chicken Bean Soup that’s packed with flavor, nutrition, and plenty of heartiness to keep you satisfied.

This chicken bean soup is incredibly easy to make, even if you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a soul-warming meal in about 30 minutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity while still delivering layers of flavor. From tender chicken to creamy beans, every spoonful is a comfort. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients Needed

To make this Chicken Bean Soup, here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breast or Thighs – 1 lb (boneless, skinless)
Canned White Beans – 2 cans (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
Chicken Broth – 4 cups (low-sodium, if possible)
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Carrot – 2 medium, peeled and diced
Celery – 2 stalks, diced
Spinach or Kale – 2 cups (fresh, chopped)
Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
Ground Cumin – 1 tsp
Ground Coriander – 1 tsp
Paprika – 1 tsp (for a smoky depth)
Salt and Pepper – to taste
Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp (optional, for a burst of freshness)
Fresh Parsley – for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Sauté The Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add The Garlic And Spices

Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Stir for 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom and release their aromatic flavors.
Cook The Chicken

Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Shred The Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Once shredded, return the chicken to the soup, stirring it to incorporate it into the broth and vegetables.
Add The Beans And Greens

Drain and rinse the canned beans, then add them to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale, and simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the greens are tender and the soup is heated through.
Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little tang, add the lemon juice. Give it one last stir before serving.
Garnish And Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down a few key ingredients and why they’re important to this recipe:

Chicken Breast or Thighs: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, while thighs offer a richer flavor and slightly more moisture. Both work well in soups, but thighs can add a more tender, juicy texture.
White Beans: Beans like cannellini or great northern beans are creamy and absorb the flavors of the broth well. They provide a nice texture contrast to the chicken and help make the soup hearty without being overly heavy.
Spices: The cumin, coriander, and paprika create a warm, slightly earthy, and smoky base. These spices elevate the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables.
Greens (Spinach or Kale): Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale not only boosts the nutrition but also adds color and texture to the soup, balancing the richness of the chicken and beans.
Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity brightens up the soup, making it feel fresher and more vibrant. It’s especially great if the soup sits for a while and you want to bring back that fresh pop of flavor.

Expert Tips

Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. The bones will give the broth a deeper richness. You can always shred the chicken off the bone after cooking.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You can adjust the level of spice based on your preference.
Add Extra Veggies: You can sneak in other veggies like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers to bulk up the soup and add more variety.
Stir in Some Cream: For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. This will give the broth a velvety smooth texture.
Make It Ahead: Chicken Bean Soup is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen the longer it sits, so consider making it a day in advance for an even better-tasting meal.
Don’t Skip the Lemon: A dash of lemon juice adds brightness to the soup. Without it, the flavors might feel a little flat.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more beans or use a plant-based protein like tempeh for added texture and protein.
Mexican Twist: Add some diced tomatoes, black beans, and chili powder for a Tex-Mex version. Serve with tortilla chips or a sprinkle of cheese for an added flair.
Italian-Style: Toss in some diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano, and top with parmesan cheese. You could also swap the beans for cannellini beans for an Italian-inspired soup.
Spicy Southwest: Add some diced green chilies, corn, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also top with avocado and cilantro for a fresh, zesty finish.

Final Words

Chicken Bean Soup is one of those dishes that’s both comforting and nourishing, making it ideal for almost any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a casual dinner, or just want something filling that doesn’t take hours to make, this recipe has you covered. The combination of chicken, beans, and greens is not only tasty but also packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a balanced meal in a bowl.

It’s the perfect soup to make in large batches, so don’t be afraid to double the recipe and keep some in the fridge for later. The leftovers are even better the next day!

Chicken Bean Soup Easy Recipe