On a chilly Tuesday evening, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of my quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill, a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen for its bright, refreshing flavors and comforting warmth. I remember the first time I made this dish; I had just returned from a long day at work, the rain was drumming against the window, and I needed something that felt like a hug in a bowl but didn't take hours to prepare. I rummaged through my pantry and found a can of cannellini beans, some leftover rotisserie chicken, and a bunch of fresh dill that was nearing its end. The result was this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill, and it was so transformative that I knew I had to share it. This soup is the perfect marriage of zesty citrus, earthy herbs, and hearty protein, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still want to eat something wholesome and gourmet.
Creating the perfect quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill isn't just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it is about the balance of flavors. The sharpness of the lemon cuts through the richness of the chicken broth, while the dill provides a unique, grassy aroma that elevates the entire experience. Unlike a heavy creamy chicken spaghetti bake, which is wonderful for indulgence, this soup offers a lightness that leaves you feeling energized rather than weighed down. It is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a masterpiece in under thirty minutes. My family now asks for this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill at least once a week, especially during the transitional seasons of spring and fall.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Incredible Speed: This quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is designed for those who have zero time but want a 5-star meal. By using pre-cooked chicken and canned beans, you bypass the long simmering times usually required for soup.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and fiber-rich white beans, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious. The addition of fresh spinach at the end provides a boost of iron and vitamins.
- Bright and Unique Flavor Profile: While most chicken soups rely on heavy cream or just salt and pepper, this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill uses the power of acidity and fresh herbs to create a vibrant palate.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It stores beautifully! If you prepare a big batch of this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill, it actually tastes even better the next day as the dill and lemon meld further into the broth.
Key Ingredient Notes
To ensure your quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill turns out perfectly every time, pay attention to these key ingredients. First, the chicken broth. I highly recommend using a low-sodium, high-quality bone broth if available. Since this is a quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill, the broth is the canvas for all other flavors, so a rich base makes a huge difference. If you have time, you could even look at our other citrus-forward dishes like this creamy lemon chicken soup recipe for inspiration on broth building.
Second, the beans. Cannellini beans are my top choice for this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill because of their creamy texture and ability to absorb the lemon-dill infusion. However, Great Northern beans or even navy beans work well. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove the starchy liquid from the can, which keeps the broth clear. Finally, the dill. Please, use fresh dill! Dried dill just doesn't have the same impact. The fresh herb provides that signature zing that defines the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill.
Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips
Preparing this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is a breeze if you follow these steps. Step 1: Start by sautéing your aromatics. In a large pot, heat olive oil and add finely diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until they are softened but not browned. This creates the foundational flavor for your quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill. Step 2: Stir in the garlic and cook for just thirty seconds until fragrant. Don't let it burn, as bitter garlic will ruin the delicate lemon notes later on.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This is the stage where you want to add your salt and a pinch of black pepper. Step 4: Add the shredded chicken and the rinsed white beans. Reduce the heat and let the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the beans to soften slightly and the chicken to absorb the savory broth. Pro Tip: If you want a thicker consistency, mash a handful of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon.
Step 5: Now for the magic. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. The acidity of the lemon in the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is what makes it stand out. Step 6: Add the chopped fresh dill and a handful of baby spinach. Stir until the spinach is just wilted. This step ensures that the herbs stay bright green and the lemon flavor remains sharp and fresh in your quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill. Step 7: Serve immediately with a crusty piece of bread or a light side salad.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is its versatility. If you want to make it even heartier, you can add half a cup of cooked orzo or pearl couscous. For a Mediterranean twist, top your bowl of quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a few kalamata olives. The salty cheese complements the lemon beautifully. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process will give the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill a lovely kick.
When it comes to serving, this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill pairs excellently with sourdough bread. For those who enjoy meal prepping, I suggest storing individual portions in Basics Glass Food Storage containers. These glass containers are perfect for reheating because they don't absorb odors and keep the lemon-dill aroma fresh. Just be sure to add a tiny splash of extra lemon juice when reheating your quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill to revive those bright top notes.
Nutrition Information
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content for a standard serving of this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill. Please note that these are estimates based on standard ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Carbohydrate Content | 24g |
| Cholesterol Content | 45mg |
| Fat Content | 8g |
| Fiber Content | 6g |
| Protein Content | 28g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.5g |
| Serving Size | 1.5 cups |
| Sodium Content | 650mg |
| Sugar Content | 3g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 5.5g |
As you can see, the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is a balanced meal that fits into many dietary plans. It is high in protein and fiber while remaining relatively low in calories and saturated fat, making the quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill a guilt-free dinner option.
Conclusion
I hope this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill becomes as much of a favorite in your household as it is in mine. Whether you are battling a cold, looking for a light summer dinner, or simply need a fast meal after a long day, this quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill is the answer. The combination of lemon and dill is timeless, and when paired with chicken and beans, it creates a satisfying and sophisticated dish. Don't forget to experiment with your own additions and enjoy every spoonful of your homemade quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill!
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh in this soup?
While you can use dried dill, fresh dill is highly recommended for the best flavor profile. If you must use dried, use about 1 tablespoon instead of the 1/4 cup of fresh dill.
How long does quick chicken and white bean soup lemon dill last in the fridge?
This soup will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve over time.
Can I freeze this lemon dill chicken soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, the spinach may become a bit mushy upon thawing. For the best results, add fresh spinach and a squeeze of fresh lemon after reheating.
What are the best beans to use for this soup?
Cannellini beans are the best due to their creamy texture, but Great Northern beans or Navy beans are excellent substitutes.
Quick Chicken and White Bean Soup with Lemon and Dill
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant, healthy, and incredibly fast soup featuring tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and a refreshing lemon-dill broth.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until soft.
Step 2: Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the shredded chicken and cannellini beans. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
Step 6: Add fresh dill and baby spinach. Stir until the spinach is wilted (about 1 minute).
Step 7: Ladle into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
Using a rotisserie chicken makes this recipe exceptionally fast. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Cuisine: American/Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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