Description

Welcome to the warm, comforting world of White Bean and Chicken Ham Hock Soup! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that speaks to the heart of home cooking. Originating from rustic kitchens, this soup is a perfect embodiment of hearty meals meant to nourish both the body and soul. The creamy white beans meld beautifully with tender pieces of chicken and the smoky depth from ham hocks, creating a dish that warms you from the inside out.

What makes this soup truly special is its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can be whipped up on a chilly evening after a long day or made in a big batch to share with family during a cozy gathering. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, and the aroma wafting from your kitchen will invite everyone to gather around the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham hocks or rotisserie chicken, making it a smart choice for those looking to reduce food waste while still enjoying a filling meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of dried white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans)
• 1 large ham hock or smoked ham shank
• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: 1 cup of kale or spinach, chopped
• Optional: A splash of lemon juice for brightness

Preparation Method

To begin this delicious journey, start by preparing your dried white beans. Place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight to rehydrate, or if you're short on time, you can use a quick soak method by boiling them for about 2 minutes, then letting them sit covered for an hour. This step is crucial, as it helps to soften the beans and reduce their cooking time.

Once your beans are ready, drain them and set them aside. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins, as the base of your soup starts to develop.

Next, introduce the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables soften for another 5 to 7 minutes. This aromatic mixture, known as a mirepoix, will create a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Now, it’s time to add the ham hock to the pot. Place it right in the center among the vegetables. The ham hock will impart a wonderful smoky flavor to the broth, enhancing the overall taste of your soup. Follow this by adding the soaked white beans, the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer.

Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. It’s essential to stir occasionally during this time, checking that the beans aren’t sticking to the bottom and that the broth is bubbling gently.

While the beans are cooking, it's a great moment to prepare the chicken. If using raw chicken thighs or breasts, season them generously with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to cool slightly. After a few minutes, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.

Once the beans are tender, carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before pulling the meat off the bone. Chop the ham into small, bite-sized pieces and return it to the soup, discarding the bone and any excess fat. Stir in the shredded chicken, allowing it to heat through in the gently bubbling broth.

If you’re looking to add some vibrant greens to this hearty soup, now is the perfect time to toss in the chopped kale or spinach. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and tender. If you want to brighten up the flavors, add a splash of lemon juice right at the end to elevate the dish.

Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your personal preferences. Once everything is perfectly seasoned, remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

Serving this soup is an experience in itself. Ladle the warm, fragrant soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or homemade cornbread, perfect for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth.

Tips and Conclusion

For an easy variation, you can swap out the chicken for turkey or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, substitute the ham hock with smoked paprika to give the soup that smoky flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with different beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Additionally, this soup freezes incredibly well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later. Just store it in airtight containers, and it will last in the freezer for up to three months!



Preparing White Bean and Chicken Ham Hock Soup is not just about making a meal; it’s about creating a warm, inviting experience that fills your home with comforting aromas and brings loved ones together. Each step of the process is infused with care and attention, resulting in a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

As you savor this delightful soup, take a moment to appreciate the flavors and the love that went into making it. Once you’ve enjoyed this recipe, I encourage you to explore other comforting dishes on our site, such as a classic beef stew or a hearty vegetable chili. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, inviting them to join you in the joy of cooking and enjoying a nourishing bowl of goodness. Happy cooking!