This chicken and bean stew is the kind of dinner that feels comforting without taking all evening. It’s rich, savory, and perfect with a spoon and some bread.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- hearty and filling for a real dinner
- simple ingredients, big flavor
- great for leftovers the next day
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- no chicken thighs → chicken breast (cook gently so it stays tender)
- no white beans → cannellini beans or chickpeas
- no bell pepper → zucchini or celery
- no fresh parsley → dill or a pinch of dried herbs
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot until it shimmers slightly.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly golden on the outside.
- Stir in the onion and carrots, cooking until the onion turns soft and sweet.
- Tip: Let the vegetables sit a moment so they pick up a little color.
- Add the garlic and bell pepper, stirring until the kitchen smells warm and savory.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and thyme, mixing until everything looks coated.
- Pour in the stock and crushed tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Tip: This is where the stew gets its deep, rich base flavor.
- Add the beans and bay leaf, then bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, until the stew thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
- Tip: If it feels too thick, add a small splash of water or stock.
- Stir in the fresh parsley right before serving for a clean, bright finish.
Tips
Serve this stew with crusty bread or rice to soak up the sauce, and let it rest for 5 minutes off the heat so the flavors settle.
FAQ
1. Can I use canned beans for this stew?
Yes, canned beans work perfectly here — just rinse them well before adding.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this stew freezes well, though the beans may soften slightly after thawing.
Make it a Meal
Turn this into a full dinner by serving it with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even mashed potatoes for something extra cozy and filling.
I love making this on colder evenings when I want dinner to feel warm and taken care of without much work.
Also worth trying: Quick Banana Blossom Salad with Lime, Herbs, and Crunch
Easy Bean and Avocado Salad with Lemon Dressing
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