Tuscan Chicken and White Beans
Are you craving a wholesome and satisfying meal that's both easy to make and bursting with flavors? Look no further! In today's recipe adventure, we're delving into the heart of Tuscany with a soul-warming dish: Tuscan Chicken and White Beans. Imagine tender chicken simmered with aromatic herbs, garlic, and juicy tomatoes, all harmonizing beautifully with creamy white beans. This Italian classic is a testament to the simple yet exquisite flavors that define Tuscan cuisine. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on a culinary journey together!
Equipment
- 1 food processor or blender
- 1 shallow lidded container or zip top bag
- 1 large pan
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ⅛ cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 sprigs fresh oregano leaves
- 4 sprigs fresh tarragon leaves
- 4 sprigs fresh basil leaves
- 4 sprigs fresh parsley
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- freshly ground pepper to taste
For the chicken and beans:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes (about 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups cooked white cannellini beans (canned is fine – just rinse them off first)
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- To prepare the marinade, I have found that it is easiest to use a food processor or blender. In the bowl of the food processor, place the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, tarragon, basil, parsley, rosemary, and pepper.
- Blend all of the ingredients well until a smooth “paste” is formed (add water one tablespoon at a time, if necessary, to help blend it if the mixture looks a little too thick.)
- Place the marinade in a shallow lidded container or zip top bag, and add the chicken. Refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for at least 2 hours (or as long as long as overnight.)
- When you are ready to begin cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Then add the cubed chicken, and allow it sit without stirring it so that it can brown lightly.
- After about 3 minutes, begin stirring the chicken and add the onion. Saute for 2 minutes, until the onion begins to soften slightly; add the beans, and continue to cook for 2 minutes longer, until the chicken is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
Video
Notes
Don't be afraid to experiment with the herbs and spices in this dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat. Remember, cooking is an art, and personalizing flavors is what makes each dish unique. Share your creative twists on this Tuscan Chicken and White Beans recipe in the comments below and inspire fellow food lovers!