There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken & White Bean Stew, especially on chilly evenings. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! The tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a medley of vegetables come together to create a nourishing stew that warms you from the inside out. I remember the first time I made this stew for my family gathering; the aroma filled the house, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! It was such a hit that now it’s a staple at our get-togethers. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any day of the week. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
2 cups white beans, canned or cooked (drained and rinsed if using canned)
1 onion, chopped finely for sweetness
2 carrots, sliced for a pop of color and flavor
2 celery stalks, chopped to add that classic stew crunch
3 cloves garlic, minced to infuse the stew with aromatic goodness
4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium for a balanced taste
1 tsp thyme, dried or fresh for an earthy note
1 tsp rosemary, dried or fresh to elevate the flavor
Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!

How to Prepare Chicken & White Bean Stew

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Chicken & White Bean Stew! Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and the aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

First things first, grab a large pot and heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5–7 minutes until they soften up and start to get that lovely golden hue. This is where the flavor foundation of your stew begins to build, so give them a good stir every now and then!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken

Next up, let’s add in the minced garlic. Stir it around for about a minute until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn, though! Then, add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook it for around 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in those savory flavors!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Stir in the white beans, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary. I like to get a good mix going here. Bring the mixture to a boil—let that steam rise! Once you see it bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when the magic happens, and all those flavors meld beautifully!

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serving

After your stew has simmered, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; taste as you go! Once you’re happy with the seasoning, serve it hot in bowls. I love to pair this stew with some crusty bread or a simple green salad. It’s the perfect comforting meal for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep and cook time: With just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Hearty and filling: This stew is perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs, making it a great choice for chilly nights.
Packed with protein and fiber: The chicken and white beans not only taste amazing but also provide a nutritious boost to your meal.
Gluten-free option: No need to worry about gluten here; this stew is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for everyone!
Versatile for leftovers: The flavors actually deepen and improve the next day, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers without any fuss.

Tips for Success

To make your Chicken & White Bean Stew truly shine, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste as you go; it’s the best way to ensure your stew is just right! If you can, use fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant flavor boost. They really elevate the dish! Also, make sure your chicken is cooked through—no one wants to bite into undercooked chicken. If you have some leftover rotisserie chicken, that works beautifully here too! Lastly, if you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the white beans before adding them to the pot. It adds a nice creaminess without needing extra ingredients. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The values listed here are typical estimates and should be taken as a general guide rather than precise measurements. Here’s what you can expect in a serving of this hearty Chicken & White Bean Stew:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 30g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Remember, it’s always a good idea to adjust your portion sizes and ingredient choices to match your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy your nourishing and delicious stew!

FAQ Section

Can I use other beans?
Absolutely! While I love the creamy texture of white beans, you can definitely swap them out for other varieties like kidney beans, chickpeas, or even lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with dried beans.

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Chicken & White Bean Stew fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down a bit before sealing it up. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
You bet! To make this stew in a slow cooker, just sauté the vegetables and chicken in a pan first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. It’s an easy way to get a delicious meal ready while you’re busy doing other things!

What can I serve with Chicken & White Bean Stew?
This stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to add a side, I recommend some crusty bread for dipping or a light green salad to balance the richness. You could even serve it over rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your delicious Chicken & White Bean Stew, let it cool down to room temperature first, then transfer it into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the stew will expand as it freezes.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend doing it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just make sure to cover it loosely to avoid splatters. If it seems a bit thick after reheating, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your comforting stew all over again!

Chicken & White Bean Stew: A Hearty Hug in a Bowl

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty chicken and white bean stew that warms you up.

Instructions

Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add chicken and cook until browned.
Stir in white beans, broth, thyme, and rosemary.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot.

Notes

Use canned beans for convenience.
Adjust seasoning as desired.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Chicken & White Bean Stew

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