Introduction
This hearty and nutritious soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with vegetables, beans, and shredded chicken or turkey, it serves as a filling meal that is both satisfying and healthy. With the added flavors of fresh herbs and a touch of lemon, this soup will surely warm you up from the inside out.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
Half an onion, finely chopped
3 carrots, finely chopped
3 ribs celery, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 sprigs fresh rosemary and/or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1 can (15 ounces) cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained
3 cups shredded kale
2–3 cups cooked shredded chicken or turkey
5 cups chicken broth
Finishers
Juice of two lemons
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan, bread, and butter for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
This wholesome soup recipe is simple to prepare and can be made in a large batch, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful combination of ingredients!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-8 minutes until the vegetables are very soft.
Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and kosher salt. Cook for about a minute, stirring continuously to prevent the garlic from burning.
Simmer Soup
Add the rinsed and drained beans, shredded kale, cooked shredded chicken or turkey, chicken broth, and the remaining olive oil (optional). Bring the mixture to a low simmer and cook for 10-20 minutes, until the kale is wilted. If time allows, simmering longer over low heat can enhance the flavors.
Finish and Serve
Remove the herb stems from the soup. Stir in the juice of two lemons and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, alongside crusty bread and butter.
Notes
Chicken
Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe. Alternatively, raw chicken breasts or thighs can be added to the simmering broth and cooked for about 10-12 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove, shred, and return the meat to the pot. Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is also a great option.
Olive Oil
Adding extra olive oil in Step 3 provides a richer flavor and mouthfeel to the soup. If using homemade broth, which typically has a higher fat content, this additional oil may not be necessary.
Instant Pot
To prepare this soup in an Instant Pot, follow Steps 1 and 2 using the sauté function. For Step 3, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for about 3 minutes and allow a natural pressure release. If adding raw chicken, cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. This technique enhances flavors by allowing the natural sugars in vegetables to caramelize, creating depth in dishes like soups and stir-fries.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food in liquid at a gentle bubbling temperature, ensuring that flavors meld together. This technique helps develop a rich taste in soups and stews and tenderizes ingredients like meat and vegetables.
Seasoning
Proper seasoning involves adding ingredients like salt, herbs, and spices at various stages of cooking to enhance the dish’s flavor profile. It’s important to taste and adjust as needed for balance.
Finishing
Finishing a dish usually involves adding last-minute ingredients, such as fresh herbs or acid, to brighten flavors just before serving. This step elevates the final taste and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen vegetables. However, they may require less cooking time since they are often blanched before freezing.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water instead, though it may alter the flavor. Consider adding more spices or seasonings in this case to enhance taste.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth along with plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh in place of chicken.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Is it okay to use canned beans?
Yes, using canned beans is convenient and saves time. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the soup to reduce sodium content.
Conclusion
This hearty soup featuring shredded chicken or turkey, cannellini or navy beans, and kale is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh herbs and lemon juice adds a delightful flavor profile, making it a perfect dish for any time of year.
Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
Use the same base ingredients with added cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until bubbly for a cozy casserole dish.
White Bean Salad
Combine rinsed and drained cannellini beans with cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a refreshing salad.
Turkey and Kale Stir-Fry
Sauté leftover turkey with kale, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce for a quick, nutritious stir-fry.
Italian Bean Soup
Incorporate diced tomatoes and Italian sausage for a heartier soup that highlights the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine.
Vegetable and Bean Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with the remaining vegetable mixture and beans, along with Parmesan cheese for a filling meal.
Homemade Chicken Broth
Use the leftover bones from your rotisserie chicken to create a rich homemade broth, perfect for future soups or as a base for risottos.
