Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, satisfying meal that feels both rustic and refined, look no further than Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans. This Mediterranean-inspired skillet dinner brings together juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of fresh herbs for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. A splash of lemon and handfuls of baby spinach add brightness and color, making the Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans a weeknight favorite you’ll want to share with family and friends again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavor, but for the way it enhances the overall dish—bringing in texture, color, and that irresistible homemade touch.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, thighs stay tender and soak up all those delicious herbs.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
• Dried thyme: Earthy and fragrant, thyme is essential for that classic herby aroma.
• Dried rosemary: Woody and slightly piney, rosemary pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Garlic powder: Boosts the savory backbone of the dish without overpowering the fresh garlic.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple, essential seasonings to bring everything into balance.
• Onion: Softens and sweetens as it cooks, adding depth to the bean mixture.
• Garlic: Minced fresh for a punch of flavor that infuses the beans and broth.
• Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, these beans soak up all the herby goodness.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps things moist while adding savory undertones without too much salt.
• Lemon juice: A pop of citrus brightens the entire skillet.
• Fresh spinach (optional): Adds a burst of green and extra nutrition; feel free to swap for kale or arugula.
• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top for color and a fresh, herby finish.

How to Make Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs on both sides with dried thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy here—the herbs are what make Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans truly sing. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes while you prep your other ingredients, so those flavors have a chance to meld.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, lay the chicken thighs in the pan and sear for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden crust and cooked-through meat. The aroma at this stage is absolutely irresistible! Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm—don’t worry, it’s not done yet.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Turn the heat down to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet. Let it soften and turn translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and stir just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This simple step builds a rich base for the beans and chicken.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans and Broth

Pour the drained, rinsed cannellini beans and chicken broth right into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Those bits are pure flavor gold! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the beans soak up the onion, garlic, and pan juices.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, cover, and let everything simmer together for about 5 more minutes. This is when the magic happens—the chicken shares its herby juices, and the beans become rich and savory. Stir in the lemon juice and, if you’re using it, the fresh spinach. Cook just until the greens are wilted and vibrant. Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh parsley not only brightens the Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans visually but adds a fresh pop of flavor. For a little extra zing, try a sprinkle of grated lemon zest or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread—perfect for soaking up all those luscious juices. If you’re feeling extra hungry, serve Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes to really make it a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, serve straight from the skillet at the center of the table. If you want to impress guests, plate each chicken thigh atop a generous scoop of beans and greens, then garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans stores well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even more delicious lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

This skillet meal freezes surprisingly well! Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep things moist. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover loosely and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer extra juiciness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

Are there other beans I can use?

Yes, you can swap cannellini beans for great northern beans or navy beans. Each variety brings a slightly different texture but all absorb the herby flavors beautifully.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and use extra beans or sautéed mushrooms as your protein. Vegetable broth will work in place of chicken broth, still giving you a hearty and satisfying meal.

What greens can I use instead of spinach?

Kale and arugula are both excellent alternatives. Kale gives a more robust texture, while arugula adds peppery notes. Just add them at the end and cook until they’re wilted and tender.

Can I make Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans in advance?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make the full batch, cool, and store as directed. The flavors only get better after a day or two in the fridge, and it reheats beautifully for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans is one of my go-to skillet dinners—it’s easy, deeply flavorful, and endlessly comforting. I hope you’ll make it your own, share it with those you love, and savor every herby, lemon-kissed bite!

Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans is a flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired skillet dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with aromatic herbs and cooked alongside tender cannellini beans and fresh spinach, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal.

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Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables and Beans

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

Liquids and Garnish

• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs on both sides with dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse them with herby flavors.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Beans and Broth: Stir in the cannellini beans and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom to enhance flavor. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer with Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook together for 5 more minutes allowing the flavors to blend well.
6. Add Lemon and Spinach: Stir in the lemon juice and fresh spinach (if using). Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the dish warm, optionally pairing it with crusty bread or rice.

Notes

• Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs if preferred.
• Kale or arugula are excellent alternatives to spinach for added variety.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or served over rice for a heartier meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with beans
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 95mg