Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet
When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a one-pan meal, especially one that’s as hearty and flavorful as Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet. This dish brings together succulent chicken thighs, creamy cannellini beans, and savory soppressata sausage, all cooked in a single skillet. It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it the perfect go-to for busy evenings or lazy weekends.
The combination of protein-rich chicken and beans creates a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling full and happy. With a hint of rosemary and the richness of olive oil, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into why this Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet deserves a spot in your dinner rotation!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet is a true weeknight hero. Here are a few reasons why it should become a staple in your kitchen:
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal clean-up, this dish can be on your table in under an hour.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and beans, this meal is filling and healthy.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and soppressata provides a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Ingredient Rundown
For this Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: These provide a juicy and flavorful base for the dish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for flavor, bringing warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon minced rosemary: Fresh rosemary elevates the dish with its aromatic notes.
- 8 ounces dried soppressata sausage, cubed: Adds a savory and slightly spicy element.
- 2 (14.5) ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: These creamy beans are the star of the show!
- 1 cup chicken stock: Provides moisture and enhances the flavor of the dish.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you get started, gather these essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is best for even cooking and browning.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up any delicious browned bits.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Cutting Board: For chopping your veggies and sausage safely.
Stepwise Method: Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper. This not only adds flavor but also helps to achieve that crispy skin we all love.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and rosemary, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Sausage
Add the cubed soppressata sausage to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to release its oils and brown slightly. This step adds incredible flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Mix in the Beans
Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, ensuring they are well mixed with the sausage and aromatics. This is where the heartiness of the dish comes in!
Step 6: Pour in the Chicken Stock
Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Return the Chicken
Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet warm, garnished with additional rosemary if desired. Enjoy the love and warmth of this comforting dish!
Substitutions by Category
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make some adjustments, here are a few substitutions you can consider:
- Protein: You can use boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breast if preferred.
- Sausage: If you can’t find soppressata, any other type of spicy sausage will work well.
- Beans: Great Northern beans or navy beans are excellent alternatives to cannellini beans.
- Herbs: If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or oregano can be used for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet freezes beautifully as well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet Q&A
Can I use other beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are the star, you can substitute them with Great Northern beans or navy beans without losing the essence of the dish.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
Searing the chicken helps develop flavor and a crispy skin. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and cook the chicken directly in the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you love this Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet, you might also enjoy these healthy-ish recipes:
- Lemon Garlic Quinoa Salad
- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
- Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Next Steps
Now that you have all the tools and tricks for making the perfect Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet, it’s time to put on that apron and start cooking! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this comforting meal. Happy cooking!
Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and rosemary, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed soppressata sausage to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to release its oils and brown slightly.
- Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, ensuring they are well mixed with the sausage and aromatics.
- Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chicken Cannellini Bean Skillet warm, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Notes
- This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
