Creamy Skillet Chicken and White Bean Stew: Easy One-Pan Dinner
Rustic, creamy, and deeply satisfying—this one-pan skillet chicken and white bean stew pairs crispy, golden chicken thighs with tender cannellini beans, burst tomatoes, baby spinach, and a secretly simple, velvety sauce made from garlic & herb cheese (e.g., Boursin). Weeknight-easy, dinner‑party worthy.
Equipment
- 12-inch deep skillet with lid
- Tongs
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 1 tbsp olive oil for searing
- 6 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tsp garlic powder for seasoning chicken
- 1 cup onion finely chopped (yellow or white)
- 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes left whole to burst
- 2 cans cannellini beans 14 oz / 400 g each, drained & rinsed
- 5 oz baby spinach fresh leaves
- 5.3 oz garlic & herb spreadable cheese e.g., Boursin®
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium‑high. Pat dry and season thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place skin‑side down and cook undisturbed 6–7 minutes until deeply golden and the skin releases easily. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more; transfer to a plate (not fully cooked yet).
- Sauté aromatics & tomatoes: Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the drippings; cook ~2 minutes until slightly softened. Add grape/cherry tomatoes; cook 4–5 minutes, stirring, until they begin to burst. Stir in drained cannellini beans and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Braise the chicken: Nestle chicken, skin‑side up, into the bean‑tomato mixture (add any plate juices). Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low‑medium 25–30 minutes, until an instant‑read thermometer at the bone reads 165°F/74°C.
- Create the creamy finish: Transfer chicken to a platter to keep the skin crisp. Stir baby spinach into the hot beans to wilt, ~1 minute. Add garlic & herb cheese; stir until fully melted and the sauce is silky. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy white bean stew into bowls and top with the crispy chicken thighs. Finish with extra black pepper or chopped herbs if desired.
Notes
For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter with the cheese. Swap spinach for kale (simmer 5–7 minutes longer). Great with crusty bread or over orzo.