Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew (One-Pan Comfort Meal)

Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew for Cozy, Flavor-Packed Dinners

There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that comes together in a single skillet and fills the kitchen with warm, savory aromas. Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew is exactly that kind of dish. Tender pieces of chicken simmer gently with creamy white beans, garlic, onions, and herbs, creating a rich yet balanced stew that feels comforting without being heavy.

This recipe is rooted in simplicity. Everyday ingredients are transformed into a hearty, nourishing meal that works just as well for a quiet weeknight dinner as it does for a relaxed weekend table. With minimal prep and straightforward cooking steps, this stew delivers big flavor with very little effort.

Why Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew Works So Well

What makes Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew so reliable is the way each element builds flavor directly in the pan. The chicken is first seared until golden, locking in moisture and creating a flavorful base. Those browned bits left behind become the foundation of the stew, enriching the broth as the onions and garlic cook.

White beans play a crucial role here. As they simmer, they release starch into the broth, naturally thickening the stew and giving it a creamy, satisfying texture without the need for cream or flour. The result is a dish that feels rustic, wholesome, and deeply comforting.

Simple Ingredients with Big Impact

This recipe relies on a short list of pantry-friendly ingredients, each chosen for flavor and balance.

Chicken Thighs
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for stews. They stay tender during simmering and bring richness to the broth that chicken breast simply can’t match.

White Beans
Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans work beautifully. Their mild flavor absorbs the broth while adding body and substance to the stew.

Aromatics
Onion and garlic form the backbone of the flavor, adding sweetness and depth as they soften in the skillet.

Broth and Tomato Paste
Chicken broth keeps the stew light and savory, while a small amount of tomato paste adds subtle richness and a deeper color.

Herbs
Dried thyme and a bay leaf give the stew a classic, comforting aroma without overpowering the other ingredients.

How This Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew Comes Together

The cooking process is straightforward and efficient. After seasoning, the chicken is seared until golden brown, then set aside while the aromatics cook in the same skillet. This step ensures no flavor is lost and keeps cleanup to a minimum.

Once the broth, beans, and herbs are added, the chicken returns to the skillet to finish cooking gently. As everything simmers, the flavors meld into a cohesive, savory stew with tender chicken and a beautifully thickened broth.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add the tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen its flavor.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
6. Stir in the white beans, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
8. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

What to Serve with Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew

This stew pairs well with simple sides that complement its rich, savory broth:

• Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls
• Steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables such as carrots or broccoli

Each option helps round out the meal while keeping the focus on the stew.

Storage and Reheating

Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for leftovers.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat
• Add a splash of chicken broth if the stew thickens too much

As it rests, the flavors continue to develop, making the stew even more satisfying the next day.

Easy Variations

This recipe adapts easily to different preferences and seasons:

• Stir in spinach or kale during the final minutes of cooking
• Use rosemary instead of thyme for a deeper herbal note
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
• Swap white beans for chickpeas or butter beans

Each variation keeps the dish grounded in its comforting, rustic character.

Final Thoughts on Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew

Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew is the kind of recipe that earns repeat appearances at the dinner table. It’s simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor, all while requiring minimal effort and cleanup. With its one-pan approach and timeless ingredients, this stew delivers comfort and consistency in every bowl.