Tuscan White Bean Chicken
Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
An aromatic and hearty dish combining tender chicken with creamy white beans in a savory Tuscan sauce.
This Tuscan White Bean Chicken is a comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying with a rich flavor profile
- Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
A Taste of Tuscany
Tuscan cuisine is renowned for its robust flavors and rustic ingredients, making it a favorite among food lovers. This Tuscan White Bean Chicken dish captures the essence of this vibrant region, blending fresh herbs, tender chicken, and creamy white beans. Each bite transports you to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, where meals are a celebration of simple yet high-quality ingredients.
The combination of cannellini beans and diced tomatoes not only adds depth to the dish but also provides a beautiful color contrast. The addition of spinach and fresh basil brings a touch of brightness, making this meal not only delicious but visually appealing as well. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of Italy right in your own home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Tuscan White Bean Chicken fits the bill. Its straightforward preparation makes it ideal for busy evenings, while its rich flavors make it suitable for special occasions. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Moreover, this dish is highly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your taste by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping the chicken for another protein, such as turkey or tofu. This flexibility means you can enjoy it year-round, making it a staple recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers significant health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with cannellini beans, which are rich in fiber and essential nutrients, this dish makes for a well-rounded meal that supports overall health.
The addition of spinach and tomatoes boosts the antioxidant content, helping to combat inflammation and promote heart health. With a balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, Tuscan White Bean Chicken is a nourishing choice that satisfies both your hunger and your health goals.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
Combine and Serve
Stir in the spinach, basil, and lemon juice. Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the flavors for about 5 minutes. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Tuscan white bean chicken!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delicious dish, you're in luck! Tuscan White Bean Chicken stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any remaining chicken and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Tuscan White Bean Chicken experience, consider pairing it with some delicious sides. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the dish beautifully. The peppery greens add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Another great option is to serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or whole-grain rice. This not only adds heartiness but also boosts the nutritional profile of the meal. You can also offer some crusty Italian bread on the side to soak up the savory sauce.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful kick. Alternatively, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. This will create a luxurious texture that makes the dish even more indulgent. Remember, cooking is all about personal taste, so don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with great northern beans or any white bean of your choice.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and reheat before serving.
→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Tuscan White Bean Chicken
An aromatic and hearty dish combining tender chicken with creamy white beans in a savory Tuscan sauce.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the spinach, basil, and lemon juice. Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the flavors for about 5 minutes. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 42g