Tuscan Style Chicken Stew is a delightful and quick-to-prepare dish, bursting with flavors reminiscent of the rustic Italian countryside. This heartwarming stew, which combines succulent chicken with beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic rosemary, is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a wholesome lunch or a cozy weeknight dinner. Below is a comprehensive guide to creating this delicious dish, along with nutritional information and serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience.
Tuscan Style Chicken Stew Recipe
Overview
- Name: Tuscan Style Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This quick and tasty stew is a great option when you’re short on time but craving something wholesome and flavorful. Pair it with a crisp salad, some crusty bread, and herb butter for a satisfying meal.
Categories and Keywords
- Recipe Category: Stew
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Chicken Breast, Chicken, Poultry, Beans, Meat, European, Winter, < 30 Mins, Stove Top, Easy
Ingredients
For this Tuscan-inspired stew, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This stew is not only quick and easy to prepare but also nutritionally balanced:
- Calories: 334.8 kcal
- Fat: 11.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
- Cholesterol: 72.6 mg
- Sodium: 844.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 8.3 g
- Sugar: 3.7 g
- Protein: 32.5 g
Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing your Tuscan Style Chicken Stew:
-
Cook the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender and translucent, about 3 minutes.
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Prepare the Chicken:
- While the onion and garlic are cooking, cut the chicken breasts into 1 1/2 inch pieces.
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces with ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute, until the chicken starts to brown slightly.
-
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in the cannellini beans, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and chopped rosemary.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer.
-
Simmer the Stew:
- Allow the stew to simmer, covered, for about 9-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
-
Serve:
- Ladle the stew into serving bowls.
- Serve hot, with optional sides like a crisp salad, crusty bread, and herb butter.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stew
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh rosemary and good quality sun-dried tomatoes will significantly enhance the flavor of your stew.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
- Texture Variation: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the cannellini beans before adding them to the skillet.
- Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
To create a well-rounded meal, consider the following pairings:
- Salads: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty stew well.
- Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti pairs wonderfully with the chicken and rosemary notes in the stew.
Culinary Notes
Origin and Inspiration
Tuscan cuisine is known for its simple yet robust flavors, often using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This stew draws inspiration from classic Tuscan dishes, emphasizing the use of beans, chicken, and aromatic herbs like rosemary. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth, while the cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and hearty substance.
Versatility of Ingredients
- Chicken: While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breast, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Beans: Cannellini beans are traditional, but you can substitute with other white beans like Great Northern or Navy beans if preferred.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If sun-dried tomatoes are not available, try using fresh cherry tomatoes or a small amount of tomato paste for a different yet delicious variation.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the stew in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the stew has thickened too much.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chunks of tofu or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when cooking the onion and garlic for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Stew: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving for a creamy, indulgent version.
Conclusion
Tuscan Style Chicken Stew is a fantastic dish that brings together the essence of Italian cuisine in a quick and easy recipe. With its combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and rich sun-dried tomatoes, all infused with the aromatic notes of rosemary, this stew offers a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Ideal for a busy weeknight or a cozy winter lunch, it pairs beautifully with simple sides and a good glass of wine. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Tuscany with every spoonful!
