This Hearty Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Soup is a comforting one-pot meal filled with wholesome ingredients. The combination of smoky chicken sausage, tender white beans, and nutrient-rich kale makes it a well-balanced dish perfect for any season. The broth, infused with garlic, oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes, creates a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with a crusty slice of bread. Not only is this soup incredibly satisfying, but it’s also easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal to warm you up or a delicious way to use up pantry staples, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition. Serve it fresh or store leftovers for a meal-prep-friendly option that gets better with time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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4 cups chicken broth
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2 cups kale, chopped
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
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Stir in white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
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Bring to a simmer, then return the sausage to the pot and cook for 15 minutes.
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Add kale and let it wilt for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless soup recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:
1. Quick and Easy to Make
This soup requires minimal prep work and comes together in about 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Nutritious and Balanced
Packed with protein from the chicken sausage, fiber from the white beans, and vitamins from the kale and other vegetables, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s a balanced meal that provides energy and keeps you full for hours.
3. Great for Meal Prep
This soup stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prepping in advance and having ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
4. Customizable and Versatile
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the kale for spinach, add extra veggies, use different beans, or spice it up with extra red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless!
The Health Benefits of This Soup
Protein-Packed and Satisfying
Chicken sausage is a lean source of protein, making it a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function, and incorporating it into meals helps keep you full and satisfied.
Rich in Fiber
White beans are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports heart health. A fiber-rich diet is also linked to improved gut health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals
The variety of vegetables in this soup provides a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots and celery offer vitamin A and potassium, while kale adds a dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to immune support, bone health, and overall well-being.
Low in Calories Yet Filling
Despite being hearty and satisfying, this soup is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal while maintaining a balanced diet.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Soup
1. Choose High-Quality Chicken Sausage
Since chicken sausage is a key ingredient in this dish, opt for a high-quality, flavorful variety. Look for options with minimal additives and a good balance of herbs and spices.
2. Sauté the Sausage for Extra Flavor
Browning the chicken sausage before adding the other ingredients helps enhance the soup’s overall flavor. It allows the sausage to develop a deep, rich taste that infuses into the broth.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients
While canned beans and tomatoes work well in this recipe, fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a big difference in taste. If possible, use homemade or low-sodium broth for the best results.
4. Don’t Skip the Greens
Kale or spinach not only adds color to the soup but also boosts its nutritional value. Adding leafy greens toward the end of cooking preserves their texture and nutrient content.
5. Adjust the Seasoning to Your Preference
Soup recipes are highly adaptable, and seasoning can be adjusted to personal taste. If you like a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes. For a milder taste, reduce the spice level and add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
How to Store and Reheat
One of the best things about this soup is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers and meal prep.
Refrigeration
- Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezing
- This soup is freezer-friendly and can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is incredibly satisfying on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami touch.
- Side Salad: Pairing the soup with a simple green salad balances the meal with extra freshness.
- A Dollop of Greek Yogurt: For added creaminess, a spoonful of Greek yogurt can complement the flavors beautifully.
Conclusion:
Hearty Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal. With its rich broth, satisfying ingredients, and customizable nature, it’s a dish that fits perfectly into any lifestyle. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
