Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting warmth of tender chicken with vibrant, wholesome flavors, then you’re going to love this Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe. Imagine juicy, herb-seasoned chicken breasts nestled into a fragrant skillet of creamy cannellini beans and bursting cherry tomatoes, all brightened with fresh lemon and baby spinach. It’s the kind of meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe comes alive with a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one adds its own touch — from the aromatic herbs and spices to the silky beans and sweet tomatoes, all coated in olive oil for richness and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, lean and easy to cook evenly.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean herb aroma that’s earthy and inviting.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings subtle depth and a hint of woodsy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken rub.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle spicy kick that livens up each bite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Perfect for searing chicken and sautéing veggies, giving richness and silky texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory, aromatic notes that sing in every mouthful.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide bursts of sweetness and a juicy texture contrast.
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy beans that add hearty body and a smooth mouthfeel.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base to simmer the ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds that perfect, bright acidity to balance richness.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Offers a fresh, leafy bite that wilts down to tender perfection.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Finishing herb that adds freshness and vibrant color.

How to Make Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is all about building flavor as you get the chicken breasts golden brown, sealing in juices and creating a gorgeous crust that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the skillet heats, season your chicken breasts generously with oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These herbs and spices will transform simple chicken into something unforgettable.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Sear each chicken breast for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they’re golden and juicy. Once perfectly browned, remove them from the pan and set aside to rest briefly. This keeps the chicken moist.

Step 4: Prepare the Bean Mixture

Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to capture all the chicken’s flavor bits left behind. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant — this is where the skillet starts to smell irresistible.

Step 5: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. They should soften slightly, releasing some of their juices but still hold that juicy pop.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, stirring well to scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom. This liquid base is where all those deep flavors mingle.

Step 7: Simmer the Beans and Spinach

Gently stir in the cannellini beans and baby spinach, cooking for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the beans warm through. This layer brings creaminess and bright green freshness.

Step 8: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through fully, soaking up those vibrant tomato and bean flavors. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked poultry.

Step 9: Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for that lovely herbal finish and serve the skillet warm. The colors at the table alone will get everyone excited to dig in.

How to Serve Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a beautiful garnish, but you can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan to elevate the dish even more. A few lemon wedges on the side encourage extra brightness just in case anyone wants a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up every flavorful drop from the skillet. For a heartier meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also balance the richness delightfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style presentation, serve everything straight from the skillet, letting guests help themselves. If you want to impress guests, plate the chicken on a bed of beans and tomatoes, then drizzle the pan sauce artistically around the dish for a stylish finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers a real treat.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember the texture of spinach softens after freezing, but the overall dish remains delicious.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating helps keep the chicken moist and prevents the beans from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are perfect for their creamy texture, navy beans or great northern beans can be great substitutes without altering the dish’s character.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. It’s a fantastic choice for those avoiding gluten.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

You can swap dried oregano and thyme for fresh herbs. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, added toward the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavor.

What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes? What can I use instead?

You can substitute grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just keep in mind that regular tomatoes will introduce more moisture, so reduce the broth slightly if needed.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way is to check with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken and ensure the juices run clear with no pink inside.

Final Thoughts

This Herbed Chicken with Cannellini Beans and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is truly a standout that manages to be both elegant and comforting. Its straightforward preparation hides a wealth of flavor and vibrant colors that make dinner feel special every time. Give it a try—you’ll soon find this dish becoming a trusted favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Print