Easy Italian White Bean Chicken
A flavorful, rustic Italian dish made with tender chicken, white beans, tomatoes, and herbs—hearty and healthy in one pot.
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.