Step 1

Season the chicken on all sides with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until browned, about 5 minutes. Flip and brown the other side. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2

Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, thyme, and pepper flakes to the pot (do not remove any of the fat). Season with salt and pepper and sauté until tender, about 7 minutes. Add the reserved chicken and any of its juices, broth, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer, adjusting the heat as needed, until the chicken is cooked through, 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, wash and coarsely chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems for another use.

Step 3

Remove the chicken to a clean plate. Add the kale and beans to the pot and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the kale is tender, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, shred the chicken (use 2 forks if the chicken is still hot) and discard the bones and skin.

Step 4

When the kale is ready, stir in the shredded chicken and lemon zest. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed. Top each serving with grated cheese.