Imagine a dish that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking - a meal so deliciously tender and packed with flavor that it'll transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in Tuscany. This Chicken Thighs with White Beans recipe is not just another dinner, it's a culinary journey that promises to revolutionize your weeknight meals with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, creating a nice crispy exterior. This step helps develop deeper flavor before slow cooking.
- In the slow cooker, spread chopped onions and minced garlic across the bottom of the ceramic insert as an aromatic base.
- Drain and rinse white beans thoroughly, then add them to the slow cooker alongside the canned diced tomatoes.
- Carefully place seared chicken thighs on top of the bean and tomato mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged but not completely covered.
- Cover slow cooker and set to low heat setting. Cook for 6 hours, allowing chicken to become tender and flavors to meld together.
- After cooking time is complete, check internal temperature of chicken thighs to ensure they have reached 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: For crispy skin, transfer chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, spooning white beans and tomato sauce around and underneath the chicken thighs. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden sear that locks in flavor.
- Don't skip the searing step - it's crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor profile.
- Use low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes to control the salt content of your dish.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before slow cooking.
- Always check the internal temperature of chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F for food safety.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and will often taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
