🍲 Mediterranean White Bean Chicken Soup
🌿 Description
This White Bean Chicken Soup is a classic Mediterranean-style comfort dish—brothy, wholesome, and deeply satisfying. Tender chicken, creamy white beans, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs come together in a light lemon-infused broth. It’s perfect for immune support, gentle digestion, meal prep, or cozy family dinners, without feeling heavy.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Soup Base
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
Protein & Beans
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500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
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2 cans (400 g each) cannellini or great northern beans, drained & rinsed
Liquid & Seasoning
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6 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
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½ tsp black pepper
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¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Finish
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Zest of ½ lemon
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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½ cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
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Optional: chili flakes for heat
🔪 Instructions
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Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. -
Add garlic & chicken
Stir in garlic and chicken. Cook 3–4 minutes until chicken turns white on the outside. -
Build the soup
Add beans, broth, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil. -
Simmer
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is tender and flavors are well combined. -
Finish Mediterranean-style
Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning. -
Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
🌿 Mediterranean Serving Ideas
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Serve with whole-grain bread or rustic sourdough
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Add a side of Greek salad
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Finish with grated Parmesan or pecorino (optional)
❓ Q & A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
A: Yes! Add shredded cooked chicken in the last 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I make this soup creamy?
A: Yes. Mash or blend ½ cup of the beans and stir them back into the soup.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Cook on LOW 6–7 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours, adding lemon and herbs at the end.
Q: Is this recipe healthy for weight management?
A: Yes. It’s high in protein and fiber, low in saturated fat, and aligned with the Mediterranean diet.
Q: Can I add greens?
A: Definitely. Stir in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last 5 minutes.
