Name: Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 lbs chicken thighs; 64 ounces chicken broth; ½ cup brown rice; 1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups); 2 tsp lemon zest (from 2 lemons); 1 (15-oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed; 5 ounces baby spinach, chopped; ½ tsp sea salt, to taste

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a pot simmering on the stove, isn’t there? Picture this: a chilly evening, the scent of garlic and onion mingling with the warmth of chicken broth filling your kitchen. As you sneak a peek, you see vibrant greens from the cabbage and baby spinach dancing in the steam, while the creamy white beans are just waiting to add their perfect touch. This sensory experience leads you to a steaming bowl of my Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup, a heartwarming dish perfect for nourishing your body and soul.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup

I remember the first time I made this soup. It was a crisp fall evening, and my kids were returning home from school, their cheeks rosy from the cold. As they entered our home, the cozy scent welcomed them like a warm hug. Instant smiles broke out, and just hearing their laughter as they anticipated a satisfying meal filled my heart with joy. Now, you can create the same memories with your loved ones. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful soup that’s not only easy to make but has an irresistible flavor that will warm anyone’s heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can whip this up in just about 1 hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chicken, garlic, and fresh vegetables creates a harmony of taste that’s deeply satisfying.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of the cabbage and spinach make for a soup that looks as good as it tastes.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a hearty lunch, a comforting dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: This recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate various diets, including gluten-free versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp avocado oil: This oil is perfect for sautéing due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Olive oil is a great substitute if you prefer that taste.
1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Add sweetness and depth to your base. You can use shallots if onions aren’t your thing.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the soup an aromatic kick. Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch.
1.5 lbs chicken thighs: Chicken thighs keep the soup hearty and are more flavorful than breasts. You can use breasts or rotisserie chicken for an even shorter prep time.
64 ounces chicken broth: A flavorful broth is essential. Low-sodium is great if you want to control the salt, or homemade broth adds a lovely touch.
½ cup brown rice: This grain gives the soup body and a nutty flavor. Feel free to swap it for quinoa or omit it for a low-carb option.
1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups): Sweet and crunchy, cabbage adds great texture and nutrition. Kale could work as an alternative.
2 tsp lemon zest (from 2 lemons): Lemon zest brightens up the flavors beautifully. You could also try lime zest for a twist.
1 (15-oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed: These creamy beans add protein and heartiness. Cannellini or navy beans are excellent choices.
5 ounces baby spinach, chopped: Spinach is mild and adds lovely greens. Swiss chard can be used if you want a stronger flavor.
½ tsp sea salt, to taste: Season to your liking; remember that the broth may already have salt!

How to Make Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup

Heat the Oil: Start by pouring avocado oil into a large pot over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a minute, then add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. The sweet scent will start to fill the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Add Garlic and Chicken: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about 30 seconds; you’ll love the fragrant aroma that follows. Next, add your chicken thighs, browning them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they have a golden sear. This step locks in incredible flavor!

Pour in the Broth: Carefully add 64 ounces of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those lovely bits stuck there. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. This process enhances the soup’s richness.

Stir in Rice: Toss in the brown rice and stir to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender. It’s such a simple step but it adds so much heart to our **Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup**.

Add the Greens: Now it’s time to bring in the star ingredients! Add the sliced cabbage, lemon zest, and white beans to the pot; stir it all up. Let it continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. As the flavors meld, the soup will transform into a vibrant masterpiece.

Finish with Spinach and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped baby spinach, allowing it to wilt for about 2-3 minutes. Season with sea salt to taste, making sure to taste-test for your perfect seasoning. You’ll notice how fragrant and colorful your soup has become; it’s a delight to behold!

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious soup, let it cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container. It can safely remain at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a pot over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. The texture might change a bit upon freezing, but adding a splash of broth while reheating can refresh it beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Make sure to check the chicken’s doneness; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor—avoid old, wilted produce for the best results.
Meal-Prep: This soup freezes wonderfully; make a big batch and enjoy later!
Enhance Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of vinegar or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or celery according to your taste preferences.

This Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup offers not just a meal but an experience of comfort. Packed with nutrients and flavors, it caters to your inner need for warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. As you stroll through your kitchen, letting the smell of this soup envelop you, I encourage you to play with the ingredients, make it your own, and create cherished moments around the table.

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute chicken thighs with another kind of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts, turkey, or even cooked rotisserie chicken can work well if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly when using different cuts or cooking pre-cooked meat.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more beans or even textured vegetable protein (TVP) for heartiness.

What veggies can I add to the soup?

This soup is highly versatile! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, or even zucchini. Just ensure they are chopped to similar sizes for even cooking.

Can I use frozen cabbage in this recipe?

While fresh cabbage enhances the flavor and texture, you can use frozen cabbage if that’s what you have at hand. Just remember that the flavor might differ slightly, but it’ll still taste great!