Classic White Bean Chicken Stew

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Looking for a cozy meal that's easy to make and warms you from the inside out? This Classic White Bean Chicken Stew is packed with hearty ingredients and spices that deliver comfort in every bite. Perfect for any season, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients for Classic White Bean Chicken Stew

The olive oil is your base for sautéing, adding a subtle depth of flavor. Onions and garlic are classic aromatics that form the foundation of the stew, infusing it with their rich, savory notes. The chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, make the stew hearty and protein-rich. Ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika provide warmth and a smoky essence, while cayenne pepper adds an optional kick. Great Northern beans bring creaminess and a nutty flavor, thickening the stew as they simmer. Chicken broth forms the flavorful liquid base, and diced green chilies introduce a mild heat and tang. Lastly, fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish add brightness and freshness to each serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer thicker stew, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot while simmering.
  • For extra depth, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth.
  • Adjust the heat by controlling the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread — perfect for soaking up every last drop. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a simple green salad to round out the meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can also add a delightful creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier.
How can I make this stew vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or some hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Classic White Bean Chicken Stew Recipe Walkthrough

First, heat up your pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic – let them sizzle together until they turn translucent and fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.

Next, add the chicken cubes to the pot. You want to get them nice and golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir them around occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Now, it’s time to spice things up. Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and, if you're feeling adventurous, the cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything to coat the chicken evenly with these fragrant spices.

Pour in the beans, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

Once the stew has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to serve. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights.
  • Uses pantry staples, minimizing trips to the store.
  • Rich in flavor, thanks to a blend of spices and fresh ingredients.
  • A wholesome, filling meal that keeps well for leftovers.
  • Customizable heat level with optional cayenne pepper.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
2. Add chicken cubes to the pot, cooking until golden brown on all sides.
3. Stir in cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Add beans, chicken broth, and green chilies, bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

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