Chicken and Chickpea Soup

When the temperature starts to drop and the chilly winds blow, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken and Chickpea Soup to bring comfort and joy. I can remember the first time I made this soup on a particularly cold evening. The aroma filled my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, eager to enjoy a hearty meal. As the soup simmered, I could already feel the warmth spreading through my home. The combination of tender chicken, hearty chickpeas, and colorful vegetables not only makes this dish nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug, perfect for when you need a little comfort food. Whether it’s a family dinner or a solo evening at home, each spoonful of this soup wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavor.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Chickpea Soup

The ingredients in this Chicken and Chickpea Soup work harmoniously to create a satisfying and nourishing dish. Each component plays a vital role in the overall flavor profile and texture. From the tender chicken to the protein-rich chickpeas, these ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that warms both the body and soul.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps sauté the onion and mushrooms for depth of flavor.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced small: Adds a foundational sweetness and aroma to the soup.
• 6 to 8 ounces portabello mushrooms, sliced: Brings an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
• 3 to 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Enhances the soup with its robust flavor.
• 64 ounces reduced sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that brings everything together.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Provides protein and substance to the soup.
• One 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and additional protein.
• 1 medium zucchini, diced into bite-sized pieces: Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons cumin, or to taste: Contributes a warm, earthy spice.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons dried coriander, or to taste: Complements the cumin with a citrusy note.
• Red chili flakes, optional and to taste: Adds a hint of heat without overpowering.
• Cayenne pepper, optional and to taste: For those who enjoy a bit of spice.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste if desired: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste: Adds a final touch of spice.
• Leaves from 6 to 8 large stalks of kale, torn into bite-sized pieces: Provides a nutritious green element.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the flavor profile.

The Process for Making Chicken and Chickpea Soup

Making Chicken and Chickpea Soup is an enjoyable process, allowing you to create a delicious meal from scratch. The steps are easy to follow, and the end result is a warming bowl of goodness that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the process!

1. To start, grab a large Dutch oven or stockpot. Add the olive oil and heat it up over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the onion to become translucent and slightly softened. Stir it intermittently to keep it from browning.
2. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Continue sautéing for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will soften and release their delicious juices, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.
3. Now it’s time to bring in the flavor! Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute. Keep stirring nearly constantly to prevent the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
4. Pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth and add the cooked shredded chicken and drained chickpeas. Stir in the diced zucchini, cumin, coriander, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add the optional red chili flakes and cayenne pepper as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes. The chicken should be warmed through, and the flavors will meld beautifully. If at any point the soup seems too thick, feel free to add a cup or two of water.
5. Afterward, add the torn kale leaves and the lemon juice. Boil for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and turned vibrant green. This step adds not only flavor but also vital nutrients.
6. Finally, taste your soup and adjust any additional seasonings as needed. The amount of salt you add can vary based on the chicken broth you used and your personal preference. Serve the soup immediately for the best experience. Enjoy the warmth and flavors while they’re at their peak!

Tips and Tricks about Chicken and Chickpea Soup

As you prepare your Chicken and Chickpea Soup, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results. These insights will help you make the most out of your cooking experience!

• Storage: How to store leftovers effectively? Always use an airtight container, and it’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Can you freeze this? Absolutely! Just ensure it cools completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: What to serve with this? It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
• Experiment: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or herbs to make this soup your own.
• Garnishing: Consider topping your soup with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

Serving This Chicken and Chickpea Soup

Serving Chicken and Chickpea Soup is just as delightful as making it. There are several ways to enjoy this comforting dish, making it perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to serve it:

• Warm Bowls: Serve it hot in bowls, allowing the warmth to fill you up and comfort your soul.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• Seasonal Touch: In winter, enjoy it as a hearty dinner; in summer, serve it with a refreshing side salad.
• Lunch Option: This soup makes for a filling lunch, perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat.
• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
• Gathering Style: For gatherings, ladle it into a large pot for a buffet-style meal, encouraging everyone to serve themselves and enjoy.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken and Chickpea Soup is a nourishing and satisfying dish that combines hearty ingredients to create a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you simply need a taste of home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t regret the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table. Enjoy each bite of this delicious soup, and share it with those you love.

Chicken and Chickpea Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken and Chickpea Soup is the perfect blend of tender chicken, hearty chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables. It's a nourishing bowl of goodness that warms the soul and satisfies cravings. Make it tonight for an easy weeknight dinner!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion diced small
• 6 to 8 ounces portabello mushrooms sliced
• 3 to 5 cloves garlic finely chopped
• 64 ounces reduced sodium chicken broth bone broth is great too
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 15-ounce can chickpeas drained and rinsed
• 1 medium zucchini diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 to 2 teaspoons cumin or to taste
• 1 to 2 teaspoons dried coriander or to taste
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste if desired
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice to brighten up the flavor
• 1 bunch kale leaves torn into bite-sized pieces, discard the center thick rib

Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Stockpot

Method

 

1. To start, grab a large Dutch oven or stockpot. Add the olive oil and heat it up over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the onion to become translucent and slightly softened. Stir it intermittently to keep it from browning.
2. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Continue sautéing for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will soften and release their delicious juices, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.
3. Now it’s time to bring in the flavor! Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute. Keep stirring nearly constantly to prevent the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
4. Pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth and add the cooked shredded chicken and drained chickpeas. Stir in the diced zucchini, cumin, and coriander, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add the optional red chili flakes and cayenne pepper as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes. The chicken should be warmed through, and the flavors will meld beautifully. If at any point the soup seems too thick, feel free to add a cup or two of water.
5. Afterward, add the torn kale leaves and the lemon juice. Boil for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the kale has wilted and turned vibrant green. This step adds not only flavor but also vital nutrients.
6. Finally, taste your soup and adjust any additional seasonings as needed. The amount of salt you add can vary based on the chicken broth you used and your personal preference. Serve the soup immediately for the best experience. Enjoy the warmth and flavors while they’re at their peak!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this soup for up to 4 months; just cool completely first.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
• Tip 4: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
• Tip 5: Adjust the spice level based on your heat preference with cayenne pepper.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.