This Chickpea Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish made with chicken or turkey sausage, tender chickpeas, and a flavorful blend of vegetables, herbs, and kale. It’s perfect for chilly days and makes a great freezer meal for those busy weeknights when you need something warm and delicious in a hurry.
If you love cozy, protein-packed meals that are both easy and nutritious, this recipe is a must-try. Be sure to check out my Italian Wedding Soup for another comforting meal idea!
Introduction
There’s something uniquely comforting about a big bowl of Chickpea Soup. With its combination of earthy chickpeas, savory chicken or turkey sausage, and nutrient-packed kale, it’s both nourishing and filling. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for later. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for something cozy to warm up with, this soup has you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken or turkey sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for deglazing)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped kale (or spinach)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make It
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, cook and crumble the chicken (or turkey) sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Deglaze the Pot: Add white wine (or chicken broth) to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the liquid reduce by half.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add olive oil, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Build the Flavor: Stir in flour (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add lemon juice, soy sauce, hot sauce (if using), mustard powder, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and return the sausage to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Add Kale: Stir in the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Sausage Options: You can use hot or mild chicken or turkey sausage, depending on your preference. If you like extra heat, go for spicy sausage. If needed, ground chicken or turkey can also work, though it will need extra seasoning.
- Deglazing the Pot: Adding wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) enhances the flavor, but if you prefer alcohol-free options, chicken broth works perfectly.
- Vegetable Variations: Swap kale for spinach, or toss in frozen corn, peas, or zucchini for more veggie goodness.
- Enhance the Flavor: Soy sauce, hot sauce, and mustard powder add depth but don’t overpower the soup. Adjust to taste for your desired flavor profile.
- Make it Healthier: To control sodium levels, opt for low-sodium broth and unsalted beans.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This Chickpea Soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
Q: What can I substitute for kale?
A: If kale isn’t your favorite, spinach is a great alternative. It wilts quickly and adds a similar nutritional boost to the soup.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can swap the chicken or turkey sausage for a plant-based sausage or simply omit the meat altogether and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Q: How do I reheat the soup?
A: You can reheat this soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave it in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
This Chickpea Soup is the perfect combination of bold flavors, cozy textures, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping it ahead for busy days, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices. Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers – trust me, you’ll be glad you did!