Name: Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 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 fantastically comforting about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic mingling with tender chicken, all enveloped in a savory broth. As you lift your spoon, it’s a feast for the eyes, with green cabbage and vibrant baby spinach creating a delightful contrast. This isn’t just any soup; it’s the Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup, bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients.

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

Back in my childhood, soup was always more than a meal; it was a ritual. My grandmother would make her signature broth on chilly afternoons, filling the kitchen with love and warmth. That feeling inspired me to recreate a dish that honors those memories while delivering delicious new flavors. Now, as the leaves turn and cooler days arrive, this hearty soup is just what you need to nourish both body and soul. Let’s dive in and make something truly special together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just over an hour, this recipe requires only 20 minutes of prep time!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sautéed garlic, juicy chicken, and the heartiness of white beans creates a taste that warms you from the inside out.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the cabbage and spinach makes every bowl a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing family or guests.
Flexible Serving: Great any time of year, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, lunch meal prep, or even a chilly brunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, this soup can be adapted for various dietary needs, making it a versatile choice for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp avocado oil: Recommended for its high smoke point, avocado oil is perfect for sautéing. Olive oil can be a suitable substitute.
1 yellow onion, finely chopped: This basic ingredient adds depth to the flavor. A sweet onion can offer a nice alternative if you prefer a milder taste.
5 cloves garlic, minced: That sweet and savory aroma comes from fresh garlic. Feel free to adjust according to your preference.
1.5 lbs chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs add heartiness to this soup. You can use breasts, but thighs provide better moisture.
64 ounces chicken broth: A must for that rich base. Homemade broth is best, but store-bought works great for convenience. Look for low-sodium options.
½ cup brown rice: This adds texture and makes the soup filling. Quinoa or barley can also be substituted for a different flavor.
1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups): Cabbage lends a crunchy, hearty bite. Savoy or green cabbage will work beautifully.
2 tsp lemon zest from 2 lemons: The zest brightens the soup, enhancing the overall flavor. Fresh lemon juice can also be added at the end for a refreshing finish.
1 (15-oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed: Cannellini or great northern beans will add creaminess and nutrition.
5 ounces baby spinach, chopped: Adding fresh spinach brings vibrant color and essential nutrients. Kale can be used if you prefer.
½ tsp sea salt, to taste: Always add salt according to your preference for a balanced flavor.

How to Make Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup

Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the avocado oil over medium heat until shimmering. It’s the cue that it’s time to add your chopped onions. As they begin to sizzle, enjoy the aromatic hints of savory goodness filling the kitchen.

Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in your finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes or until the onions are soft and translucent. This stage is crucial; it creates a flavorful base for our soup.

Brown the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with a bit of salt. Add them to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown on the outside. This step locks in moisture and flavor.

Pour in the Broth: Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any delicious browned bits. This adds even more flavor! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add the Rice: Stir in the brown rice and return to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender. Make sure to check occasionally, as the rice will release starches, thickening the broth slightly.

Toss in the Cabbage: Once the rice is tender, add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pot. Its crunchy texture will soften beautifully as it cooks for around 10 minutes. Keep the pot covered to trap in steam.

Incorporate Beans and Spinach: After the cabbage has softened, stir in the drained white beans and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. The colors will pop, making it visually appetizing!

Finish with Lemon Zest: Finally, stir in the lemon zest and give the soup a taste. Adjust the salt if needed. This finishing touch elevates the flavor, making it even more delightful!

Storing & Reheating

To store, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and it can be stored for about 3 months. When reheating, just microwave for a couple of minutes or heat gently on the stove until warmed through. Be aware that the texture of the cabbage will soften, but the flavors blend beautifully, especially after a little time.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid mushy cabbage, add it later in the cooking process or reduce the simmering time.
Always taste at the end and adjust the seasoning; sometimes, a pinch of more salt or lemon juice can make a big difference.
If your soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth and stir to reach your desired consistency.
Feel free to customize with your favorite spices; a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a lovely depth.
Prep extra and freeze for busy nights. This soup reheats wonderfully!

There’s so much to love about this nourishing dish. The Top Chicken Cabbage and White Bean Soup not only showcases incredible flavors but also reminds us of the importance of comfort food. As you sip on this vibrant, wholesome soup, let your creativity flourish! Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it your own. I hope you enjoy crafting it as much as I have and find the same joy in sharing it with loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great substitute if you prefer leaner meat. However, they may dry out slightly more than thighs, so keep an eye on them while cooking. You can also add a bit of extra broth for moisture.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Just be sure to store it in airtight containers, leaving some space for the soup to expand. It can last in the freezer for up to three months, making it perfect for meal prep.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the chicken. Try replacing it with mushrooms or adding tofu for a protein boost.

What should I serve with this soup?

This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. You can even consider grilled cheese for a delightful twist!