Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup

Whenever the weather turns chilly, I find myself reaching for my favorite comfort food: Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it during a cold winter evening. The aroma of sautéing vegetables filled my kitchen, instantly warming my heart and home. As I stirred in the vibrant flavors of lemon and tender chicken, I knew I had stumbled onto something special. Each spoonful is a delightful balance of zesty lemon and hearty white beans, making it an irresistibly satisfying dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup

When creating a comforting dish like this, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component contributes to the soup’s rich flavor and heartiness. From the tender chicken to the creamy white beans, these ingredients work in harmony to create a nourishing bowl of goodness.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
• 2 sticks celery, chopped small: Adds crunch and a subtle flavor base.
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled & chopped small: Contributes color, sweetness, and nutrition.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the broth.
• 6 cups chicken broth: The base of our soup, providing rich flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor profile.
• 1 (15 fluid ounce) can white beans, drained: Adds creaminess and texture.
• 3/4 cup uncooked macaroni or ditalini pasta: Creates heartiness and makes the soup filling.
• 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken: Makes the soup protein-packed and satisfying.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more, to taste): Brightens the soup and enhances flavors.
• 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds nutrients and a pop of color.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Cooking Instructions for Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup

Let’s dive into making this cozy soup! The process is straightforward and enjoyable, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal in no time. Follow these steps to create your own bowl of Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup.

1. Add the olive oil, celery, onion, and carrots to a soup pot and sauté over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes. As these vegetables cook, they will soften and release their flavors, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
2. Next, add in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not browned since it can turn bitter.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. This will help to thicken the soup and give it a nice body.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure that the flour dissolves completely. You’ll see the broth start to come together, forming the base of your soup.
5. Add in the Italian seasoning, white beans, and pasta. Turn the heat up to high and let the soup come to a boil. This will help the pasta cook properly.
6. Once boiling, give it a good stir. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir it a couple of times during the cooking process to ensure the pasta isn’t sticking to the bottom.
7. Now, add in the chicken and lemon juice. I often add an extra tablespoon or two of lemon juice since I love the bright flavor it brings. Stir to combine.
8. Next, add the fresh baby spinach. Cook for another few minutes until it’s heated through and the spinach has wilted.
9. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, and your Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup is ready to enjoy!

Substitutions and Tips

When making Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup, there are some tips and substitutions you might find handy. The essence of the recipe remains intact while allowing for flexibility based on your pantry items and preferences.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian option: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.
• Seasoning: If you’re sensitive to salt, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup

Serving Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup is just as delightful as making it! The beautiful colors and comforting aroma make it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:

• Lunch or Dinner: This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Pair it with a light salad for lunch or a side of crusty bread for dinner.
• Special Occasions: Serve it at gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it during winter months when you crave warmth and comfort. The bright flavor of lemon also makes it a refreshing choice in spring.
• Garnish: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of extra lemon juice for a pop of freshness.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers and reheat on the stove over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of broth to thin it out.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup is a delightful blend of comfort and zest that makes it truly special. With its hearty ingredients and refreshing flavors, it’s a dish that you’ll want to share with family and friends. I encourage you to try making this soup tonight; it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table!

Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup is creamy, hearty, and full of vibrant flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight and savor each warm, zesty bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 sticks celery chopped small
• 1/2 medium onion chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled & chopped small
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 15 fluid ounce can white beans drained
• 3/4 cup macaroni or ditalini pasta uncooked
• 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more, to taste)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Add the olive oil, celery, onion, and carrots to a soup pot and sauté over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes. As these vegetables cook, they will soften and release their flavors, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
• Next, add in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not browned since it can turn bitter.
• Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. This will help to thicken the soup and give it a nice body.
• Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure that the flour dissolves completely. You’ll see the broth start to come together, forming the base of your soup.
• Add in the Italian seasoning, white beans, and pasta. Turn the heat up to high and let the soup come to a boil. This will help the pasta cook properly.
• Once boiling, give it a good stir. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir it a couple of times during the cooking process to ensure the pasta isn’t sticking to the bottom.
• Now, add in the chicken and lemon juice. I often add an extra tablespoon or two of lemon juice since I love the bright flavor it brings. Stir to combine.
• Next, add the fresh baby spinach. Cook for another few minutes until it's heated through and the spinach has wilted.
• Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, and your Lemon Chicken White Bean Soup is ready to enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers will soak up the broth, so you may need to add more chicken broth when reheating.
• Tip 2: Sensitive to salt? Use low-sodium chicken broth.
• Tip 3: Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy only and should be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary.

Keyword Comfort Food Soup, Hearty Chicken Soup, Lemon Chicken Soup, White Bean Soup

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.