Make this chicken and bean soup recipe in about 45 minutes. Loaded with tender chicken, white beans, veggies & flavor — perfect for a comforting meal.
Why This Chicken and Bean Soup Recipe Works
There are plenty of soup recipes out there, but few strike the balance between comfort, flavor, and nutrition quite like this chicken and bean soup recipe.
It’s hearty yet light, protein-packed yet wholesome, and comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving a warm bowl of goodness, this recipe delivers.
What makes it shine? The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth that ties it all together. It’s a dish that feels homemade without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
What You’ll Need (Chicken, Beans & More)
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast or thighs | 2 cups cooked, shredded | Leftover rotisserie chicken works great |
| White beans | 2 cans (15 oz each), rinsed | Cannellini, navy, or Great Northern |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Yellow or white |
| Carrots | 2 medium, chopped | Adds sweetness |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped | Classic soup base |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Boosts flavor |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Seasonings | To taste | Salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf |
| Optional add-ins | 2 cups greens (spinach, kale) | For extra nutrition |
Tip: This chicken and bean soup recipe works with either cooked chicken or raw chicken simmered in the broth (then shredded before serving).
How to Make Chicken and Bean Soup
Follow these easy steps for a flavorful, protein-rich meal:
- Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add beans and broth: Stir in the white beans, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate chicken: Add shredded chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes so flavors meld.
- Season and finish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra herbs. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in fresh greens like spinach if desired.
- Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers.
This chicken and bean soup recipe can also be adapted for slow cooker or Instant Pot. For slow cooker: combine everything except greens and cook on LOW 6–7 hours. Stir in greens just before serving.
Tips, Swaps & Flavor Variations
- Bean swap: Try black beans or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
- Make it creamy: Blend 1 cup of beans with broth before adding back to the pot for a creamier texture.
- Add grains: Stir in cooked rice, barley, or quinoa to make it even more filling.
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cumin for warmth.
- Low sodium option: Use unsalted broth and adjust salt at the end.
These small tweaks allow you to customize this chicken bean soup to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Protein, Fiber & Health Perks
Why choose this soup over others? Because it’s as nourishing as it is tasty. Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full, while beans add both plant protein and dietary fiber for digestive health. Together, they form a powerhouse combo that supports muscle recovery, energy, and satiety.
A typical serving of this healthy chicken bean soup offers about:
| Nutrient | Approx. per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
It’s also naturally gluten-free if you choose certified gluten-free broth and beans.
What to Serve with This Soup
This hearty dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with simple sides makes for a complete meal. Try serving it with a slice of warm crusty bread, a fresh side salad with lemon vinaigrette, wholesome whole-grain crackers, or flavorful roasted vegetables. The mild, savory flavors of this chicken and bean soup make it versatile and perfect to enjoy with a variety of sides.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it keeps:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen texture.
This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or batch cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes! Soak 1 cup of dried beans overnight, then simmer them until tender before adding. This adds extra depth to your chicken and bean soup recipe.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. It freezes well up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes. Use sauté mode for veggies, then add chicken, beans, and broth. Cook on HIGH pressure for 12 minutes, natural release for 10.
How long does chicken bean soup last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it keeps for 3–4 days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work wonderfully.
Wrap-Up & Call to Action
If you’re searching for a wholesome, easy-to-make dish, this chicken and bean soup recipe is a must-try. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough for family dinners. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your variations — your next favorite soup could be just one pot away!
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
