If you love comforting, wholesome meals with bold Italian flavors, then this Italian White Bean Chicken recipe is for you. Tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and a savory tomato-herb sauce come together in one pan for a satisfying dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Easy Italian White Bean Chicken :
Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner? This Italian-style white bean chicken is packed with protein, fiber, and Mediterranean goodness. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and tastes like it came straight out of a rustic Italian kitchen.
History of the Recipe :
This dish is inspired by Tuscan peasant cuisine, where simple, accessible ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and herbs were transformed into hearty meals. White beans (especially cannellini) have long been a staple in Italian households due to their affordability and nutrition. Combining them with chicken and herbs is a modern adaptation that adds extra protein and turns the dish into a satisfying main course.
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Easy Italian White Bean Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pan, add diced onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
Deglaze & Simmer:
- Add diced tomatoes (with juice), cannellini beans, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Return Chicken & Cook:
- Place the chicken back into the pan. Cover and simmer on low for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Finish & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- You can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a thicker stew, mash some of the beans into the sauce.
- Great for meal prep—flavors get even better the next day.
Tips for Easy Italian White Bean Chicken :
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Don’t skip the searing step—it adds a rich depth of flavor to the chicken.
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Want it creamier? Add a splash of cream or parmesan at the end.
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Serve with toasted garlic bread for the ultimate cozy experience.
FAQs for Easy Italian White Bean Chicken :
Q: Can I use other beans instead of cannellini?
A: Yes! Great Northern beans or navy beans are good alternatives.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your broth and other ingredients are certified GF.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
Conclusion :
This Recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal—hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to feed the family, impress guests, or meal prep for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes. Try it once and it just might become a staple in your kitchen!