2 tablespoons olive oil
2 ounces pancetta or prosciutto cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1/2 cup diced onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 – 4 fresh thyme sprigs, whole
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 head Swiss chard, (about 1 pound) trimmed, washed, and coarsely chopped
Two 15 ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes w/basil, garlic and oregano (with juice, preferably no salt added)
5 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium and MSG-free
5 Italian sausages, pan-cooked cooked or grilled and chopped (we use Johnsonville brand)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
Fresh ground pepper, to taste