If you’re looking for a soul-soothing meal that warms you from the inside out, this Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup (Easy & Hearty) is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The combination of creamy beans, tender chicken ham, and vibrant vegetables creates a comforting bowl of goodness that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What I adore about this soup is how effortlessly it comes together. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you go about your day. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe ensures you’ll always have something hearty on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to prepare: Just add everything to your crockpot and let it simmer—no fuss!
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love this hearty soup filled with flavors and textures.
- Perfect for leftovers: Use up any leftover chicken ham, making it a great way to reduce food waste.
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with beans, veggies, and protein, this soup keeps everyone satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup is simple thanks to wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound dried great northern or navy beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 ½ pounds chicken ham bone, chicken ham hock, or diced leftover chicken ham
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (add at the end, depending on the saltiness of the chicken ham)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:
- Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Swap in different beans: Try using cannellini beans or black beans for a different twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Creamy texture: Stir in some coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a rich, creamy soup.
How to Make Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup (Easy & Hearty)
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using dried beans, make sure to rinse them well under cool water. This helps remove any dirt or excess starch that may affect the soup’s texture. If you’re using canned beans, just drain and rinse!
Step 2: Combine Everything in Your Crockpot
In your slow cooker, layer all your prepared ingredients: the rinsed beans, chicken ham bone (or diced ham), diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, herbs, broth, bay leaf, black pepper, and kale or spinach. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything well.
Step 3: Set It and Forget It!
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully while softening those hearty ingredients until they’re perfectly tender.
Step 4: Season Before Serving
Once cooking time is up, taste your soup before serving. Depending on how salty your chicken ham is, add salt as needed. Remove the bay leaf before ladling out servings—trust me; it’s not meant to be eaten!
Step 5: Enjoy Your Hearty Bowl of Goodness
Serve up generous bowls of this warm soup with some crusty bread or a side salad if you like! Sit back and savor each bite as you enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends.
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot White Bean and Chicken Ham Soup (Easy & Hearty)
Making this soup is simple, but these tips will help you elevate your dish even further!
Soak Your Beans: If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight. This helps them cook faster and ensures a creamier texture in your soup.
Sauté Vegetables First: For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your soup.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tailor the seasoning to your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your soup a little kick if you enjoy some heat!
Add Greens at the End: Stir in the kale or spinach towards the end of cooking. This keeps them vibrant and retains their nutritional benefits.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup just before serving. This way, you can adjust salt and pepper to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned!
How to Serve Crockpot White Bean and Chicken Ham Soup (Easy & Hearty)
Serving this hearty soup can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully and make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of toasted baguette or sourdough for a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess.
Side Dishes
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for a refreshing touch.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of creamy cheese melted between buttery bread pairs perfectly with any bowl of soup and adds delightful comfort.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds an earthy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory soup flavors.
With these serving suggestions, your Crockpot White Bean and Chicken Ham Soup will not only warm hearts but also please palates at every meal! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week with ease. Whether you’re looking to save time or simply want to have delicious leftovers on hand, this recipe fits the bill!
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation.
Freezing
- Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen soup can be stored for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- You can also use the microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe:
Can I use canned beans for Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute dried beans with 3 cans of drained and rinsed great northern or navy beans. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly since canned beans are already cooked.
What can I add to my Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice just before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also work wonderfully!
How do I know when my soup is done cooking?
If using dried beans, they should be tender after approximately 8 hours on low heat. If using canned beans, a few hours will suffice as you primarily want to heat through and meld flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup is excellent for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this comforting Crockpot White Bean and chicken ham Soup as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings warmth and nourishment that feels like a big hug in a bowl. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite greens or spices – make it your own! Enjoy every spoonful!
Soup
nn
n
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. You’ll love how effortless it is to prepare—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic! The combination of tender beans, smoky ham, and fresh vegetables creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound dried great northern or navy beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 ½ pounds ham bone, ham hock, or diced leftover ham
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (add at the end, depending on the saltiness of the ham)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens
Variations
- Beans: Swap out great northern or navy beans for cannellini or pinto beans.
- Greens: Add Swiss chard or collard greens instead of kale or spinach.
- Spices: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or smoked paprika for extra smokiness.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth, adding in smoked paprika for flavor.
How to Make
- Prepare the Beans: If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight to soften.
- Add Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the soaked beans (or canned beans), ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beans are tender.
- Finish: Stir in the chopped greens in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Adjust salt to taste before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an even richer flavor, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil before adding them to the crockpot.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a portion of the beans with a potato masher before serving.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, especially if using salty ham.
How to Serve
Serve this hearty soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s also delightful with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top!
Make Ahead and Storage
This soup is perfect for making ahead! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes! If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the crockpot.
How can I thicken the soup?
You can mash a portion of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last hour of cooking.
Is it okay to leave it on low for longer than 8 hours?
Yes, it can be left on low for up to 10 hours, but check the beans for doneness as they may become too soft.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste and enjoy every delicious bite!
Crockpot White Bean and Chicken Soup (Easy & Hearty)
Crockpot White Bean and Chicken Soup (Easy & Hearty) is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or busy weekdays. This nourishing soup combines tender white beans, succulent chicken, and vibrant vegetables simmered together to create a hearty bowl of goodness. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let them meld into a creamy, satisfying dish that warms from the inside out. Perfect for meal prep, this recipe ensures you have a delicious and nutritious meal ready whenever you need it. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for added enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried great northern or navy beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 ½ pounds chicken bone or diced leftover chicken
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Rinse and soak dried beans overnight if using; otherwise, drain and rinse canned beans.
- In your crockpot, layer the rinsed beans, chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4 hours until ingredients are tender.
- Stir in greens during the last half hour of cooking and adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Leave a Comment