Giada Chicken Bean Soup Recipe

Chicken and bean soup is a super cozy choice that warms your soul whenever you need it!

Giada De Laurentiis’s recipe combines the heartiness of chicken and beans with rich flavors.

This stuff is wholesome AND delicious guys!

Adding a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the soup’s flavor profile beautifully.

I also recommend sautéing the vegetables first to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the soup.

Another little secret is to let the soup simmer a bit longer to meld the flavors before serving.

How to Make Giada Chicken Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 1 lb Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 3 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 can Cannellini Beans (15 oz., drained)
• 2 Carrots (sliced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (chopped)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic.

Cook until the onion is soft.

Step 2:

Add chicken thighs to the pot.

Sauté for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3:

Pour in the chicken broth.

Add cannellini beans, carrots, celery, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.

Stir well.

Step 4:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.

Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the chicken.

Let cool slightly, then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces.

Return the chicken to the pot.

Continue simmering for another 10 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Browning the Chicken:

Browning the chicken before simmering really enhances the soup’s flavor, so take the time for this step!

Skim the Foam:

As you simmer the broth, don’t hesitate to skim off any foam or fat for a clear soup.

Fresh Parsley:

Chop the fresh parsley close to serving time to preserve its bright flavor.

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the soup just before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed for the best flavor.

Bean Variety:

Experiment with different beans like kidney or navy for a twist on this delicious soup!

What to Serve with Giada Chicken Bean Soup Recipe

Classic Caesar Salad

You can’t go wrong with a simple Caesar salad pairing.

The crisp iceberg lettuce and tangy dressing bring a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Plus, the crunchy croutons provide a nice texture that complements the creamy consistency of the soup.

Crusty Artisan Bread

A warm, crusty loaf of artisan bread is perfect for dipping into your soup.

It’s a classic choice that pairs beautifully with the flavors of chicken and bean soup.

Just slice it thick, and be sure to have some olive oil on the side for extra dipping fun!

Parmesan Roasted Vegetables

Try pairing your soup with Parmesan roasted vegetables for something a bit different.

Roasting carrots, broccoli, and asparagus with a sprinkle of Parmesan can create a tasty and nutritious side.

This combination adds a savory element that works well alongside the soup.

Cornbread Muffins with Jalapeño

How about spicing things up by serving cornbread muffins with jalapeño?

These muffins bring a sweet and slightly spicy contrast to the soup.

The flavor profile is both unexpected and delicious, making every bite of this meal exciting.

Apple and Walnut Salad

A refreshing apple and walnut salad can be a hit with this dish.

The sweetness of the apples, combined with the crunch of walnuts, adds an interesting twist.

This salad provides a light and fresh counterpart to your hearty soup.

Variations and Substitutions

Switch Up the Protein

You can substitute the chicken with turkey for a slightly different flavor that blends well with the beans and vegetables.

For a vegetarian twist, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken, which adds a lovely texture while keeping the dish meatless.

Spice it Up

If you prefer a spicier version, add some extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it a kick.

Try including some sliced jalapeños for even more heat if you’re a fan of spicy foods.

Experiment with Greens

Escarole is a popular addition to white bean soups, but other leafy greens work too! Try adding spinach or kale for different textures and nutrients.

Chopped Swiss chard can also be used, adding a slightly earthy taste to the soup.

Creamy Variations

For a richer soup, add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of the cooking time.

You could also stir in some coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still adds creaminess to the dish.

Bean Options

If cannellini beans aren’t your favorite or aren’t available, use great northern beans or navy beans as a substitute.

You may also mash some of the beans to thicken the soup if you prefer a creamier consistency.

How to Store Leftover Giada Chicken Bean Soup

When storing leftover Giada Chicken Bean Soup, remember to cool the soup to room temperature first.

Dividing the soup into meal-sized portions can make it more convenient for future meals.

Refrigeration Tips

You can keep this soup in the fridge for three to four days without losing quality.

Place the soup in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any lingering fridge odors.

Freezing Methods

Freezing is a great option if you plan to save the soup for a longer period.

Use freezer-safe containers or bags and leave some space at the top for the soup to expand.

Avoiding Dairy Separation

If your soup contains dairy, be aware that freezing and thawing may cause separation.

To combat this, consider adding the dairy after thawing just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding Too Much Salt Early

It can be tempting to season your soup right away, but it’s best to wait.

Ingredients like beans absorb salt, intensifying the flavors as they cook.

Taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end to get it just right.

Overcooking the Chicken

You don’t want dry chicken in your soup.

Add it closer to the end because it cooks quickly, providing tender and juicy pieces.

This helps in locking in the flavors without turning it rubbery.

Skipping the Browning Process

Take the time to brown your aromatics like garlic and onions.

Browning brings out deeper flavors you don’t achieve with boiling alone.

This step is crucial for a soup that’s rich and savory.