Chicken Soup With Northern Beans Instead Of Noodles

Warm and comforting, this Chicken Soup with Northern Beans replaces traditional noodles with hearty beans for a wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Tender rotisserie chicken combines with sautéed carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth, creating a nourishing base enriched with protein and vegetables.

Perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or comforting lunches on chilly days. Follow these simple instructions to create a delicious soup that will warm both body and soul.

Chicken Soup With Northern Beans Instead Of Noodles.

Ingredients

1 rotisserie chicken breast section, or 3 cups chopped white chicken meat

1 tablespoon canola oil

3 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

1 onion, chopped

2 cups water

6 cups reduced–sodium chicken broth

1 15-ounce can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1:

Remove wings from chicken and reserve.

Remove skin from breast and discard.

Shred the meat from the breast and break off breastbones.

Step 2:

In a stockpot over medium heat, add oil.

Sauté the carrots, celery, onion, chicken wings and breastbones for 8 to 10 minutes, or until vegetables soften.

Step 3:

Add water and chicken broth and bring to a boil, stirring to combine.

Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Add beans and chicken meat and cook for 5 minutes.

If too thick, add additional broth or water.

Discard bones and wings before serving.

Season with salt and pepper.

Notes:

Use Quality Chicken: If you’re not using a rotisserie chicken, poach or bake chicken breasts until cooked through and shred them for the soup. This ensures tender, flavorful chicken.

Sauté Vegetables Well: Take your time to sauté the carrots, celery, and onion with the chicken wings and bones. This step adds depth and richness to the soup base.

Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup. You can always adjust the seasoning later.

Add Herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves while simmering the soup. These herbs complement the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick as it simmers, gradually add more chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Discard Bones Properly: Ensure you remove and discard all chicken bones and wings before serving to avoid any accidental ingestion.

Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The flavors will meld more as it simmers.

Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Make Ahead: This soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.

Serve with Bread: Serve the soup with crusty bread or rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use homemade chicken broth instead of reduced-sodium broth?

Yes, you can use homemade chicken broth if you prefer.

Adjust salt levels accordingly to control sodium intake.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned Great Northern beans?

Yes, you can use dried Great Northern beans.

Soak them overnight, then cook separately until tender before adding to the soup.

How do I make this soup thicker if I prefer a heartier consistency?

Simmer the soup uncovered for longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! You can customize with vegetables like potatoes, peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

How should I store leftover soup?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this soup for a complete meal?

Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers for a satisfying meal.

How do I adjust the seasoning if I’m using a whole rotisserie chicken instead of just the breast?

Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly to balance the flavors.

Can I use olive oil instead of canola oil for sautéing the vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil if preferred. It adds a different flavor profile to the soup.

Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?

The soup is relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if you limit the amount of beans and adjust other ingredients accordingly.

However, beans do contribute to the carb content.