Effortless Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup with Quinoa: A Healthy Family Favorite
Summer often brings a flurry of activity, from long days at the beach and trips to the pool to library visits and playdates with friends. While these moments create cherished memories, they can also leave parents scrambling to get a wholesome dinner on the table. This is precisely why my slow cooker becomes an indispensable kitchen companion during the warmer months. There’s nothing quite like walking through the door after a busy day, greeted by the comforting aroma of a delicious meal already bubbling away, requiring minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. This simple yet incredibly flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup with Quinoa is a testament to the magic of crockpot cooking, making it a staple for busy families everywhere.
This post is sponsored by Bush’s Beans, a brand I trust for quality ingredients that elevate my everyday cooking. All opinions, as always, are 100% my own.
The Inspiration: Pantry Staples to the Rescue
Just last week, after returning from a relaxing getaway, I found myself facing the all-too-familiar Monday morning dilemma: an empty fridge, a mountain of laundry, and zero desire to brave the grocery store with two energetic kids in tow. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there! I decided that dinner would have to be a creative endeavor, conjured from the depths of my pantry, fridge, and freezer. Thankfully, a well-stocked kitchen is my secret weapon for these moments. I always keep chicken breasts in the freezer, a variety of fresh vegetables in the crisper, and, crucially, a reliable stash of Bush’s Beans in the pantry.
With these staples on hand, inspiration struck. I envisioned something hearty yet comforting, reminiscent of a taco soup or a lighter chicken chili. What emerged was this fantastic Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup with Quinoa – a delicious hybrid that perfectly blends the best elements of both, creating a unique and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, making it a powerhouse of nutrition that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Why White Beans are a Pantry Essential
White beans are truly unsung heroes in the kitchen. For this Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup, I used Bush’s Cannelini or Northern White Beans, known for their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they are also nutritional powerhouses, rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Incorporating beans into your diet is a fantastic way to boost satiety, support digestive health, and contribute to a balanced meal without adding unnecessary fat.
Bush’s Beans have always been my go-to choice because of their consistent quality and delicious taste. They are a convenient and affordable way to add substance and nutrition to a wide range of dishes, from hearty soups and stews to vibrant salads. Having a few cans in the pantry means you’re always just minutes away from a wholesome meal, even when time is tight or the grocery store feels like a distant planet.
A Soup That Surprises Even Picky Eaters
One of the most rewarding aspects of cooking is finding a dish that everyone at the table enjoys, especially the little ones. My kids, who can sometimes be surprisingly selective about soup, absolutely devoured this recipe! It truly surprises me every day with what new flavors and textures they’re willing to try and enjoy. This healthy slow cooker chicken and white bean soup is chock full of good stuff, from tender shredded chicken and creamy beans to vibrant bell peppers and savory spices. Its mild yet flavorful profile, combined with the comforting texture of quinoa, makes it incredibly appealing to palates of all ages.
Beyond its family-friendly appeal, this recipe also shines as a fantastic meal prep option. The flavors only deepen overnight, making for truly delicious leftovers perfect for quick and easy lunches for a few days. I absolutely love having healthy, pre-made meals ready to go when hunger strikes during a busy workday or a hectic afternoon. Garnished simply with a dollop of cool, tangy Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of sharp shredded cheddar, this soup transforms into a gourmet-level comfort food. I can confidently say this Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup with Quinoa recipe will be making regular appearances in my crock pot throughout this summer and beyond.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup
Making this slow cooker chicken and white bean soup is incredibly straightforward, but a few tips can enhance your experience:
- Vegetable Prep: While the recipe calls for specific vegetables, feel free to adapt! Carrots, corn, or even spinach could be lovely additions. Dicing the vegetables uniformly helps them cook evenly and meld into the soup beautifully.
- Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for shredding, but boneless, skinless chicken thighs would also work, offering a slightly richer flavor.
- Spice Level: The jalapeno flakes are optional, allowing you to control the heat. For a milder soup, omit them entirely. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t forget to season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the slow cooker. This builds flavor from the start. Also, taste the soup after the beans are added and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Broth and beans can vary in sodium content.
- Quinoa Power: Quinoa adds a fantastic boost of protein and complex carbohydrates, making the soup even more filling and nutritious. Cook it separately and add a scoop to each bowl for the best texture, preventing it from getting mushy in the soup itself.
- Topping Variations: While Greek yogurt and shredded cheddar are perfect, consider other toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a squeeze of lime juice, crushed tortilla chips, or a drizzle of your favorite salsa for an extra “taco soup” vibe.
This recipe truly embodies the essence of convenient, healthy, and delicious home cooking. It’s designed to make your life easier without compromising on the quality and taste of your meals. The “set it and forget it” nature of the slow cooker means you can spend your day enjoying summer activities, knowing that a satisfying dinner is quietly preparing itself.
As I continue to navigate the demands of summer, I’m making a conscious effort to gather more of these reliable, go-to slow cooker recipes. They are invaluable for keeping stress levels low and healthy meals on the table. If you have any family-favorite slow cooker recipes or pantry-staple meals that get you through busy times, please share them in the comments below! I’d love to hear your ideas.
Slow Cooker Chicken and White Bean Soup with Quinoa
Author: Aggie’s Kitchen
Category: Chicken
Method: Slow cooker
Ingredients
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 red bell peppers, diced small (use whatever color you have)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon jalapeno flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/4 lb chicken breast
- salt and pepper
- 2 cans of Bush’s Cannelini or Northern White Beans, drained
For Serving:
- shredded cheddar cheese
- plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- cooked quinoa
Instructions
- In your your slow cooker, add celery, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, jalapeno flakes (if using), cumin and chicken broth. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides and layer them on top of rest of ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, lift lid and using 2 forks, shred your chicken breasts into pieces and spread throughout soup. Add 2 cans of beans to soup and stir. Cover and let cook for another 30 minutes or so. Taste for salt and pepper and adjust accordingly.
- To serve, add a scoop of cooked quinoa to your soup bowl and cover with your chicken and white bean soup. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and shredded cheddar cheese.
This post is sponsored by Bush’s Beans. All opinions are 100% my own.
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