Italian Chicken with Ham, Basil & Beans

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where the flavors of Italian chicken, ham, basil, beans, roasted tomatoes, garlic, and the summer end come together in a harmonious symphony on your plate. This comforting and savory dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests on a warm summer evening.

Picture this: tender chicken infused with the smoky richness of ham, the freshness of basil, and the earthiness of beans, all simmered in a luscious sauce made from roasted tomatoes and garlic. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, where every meal is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventures, this Italian chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So, grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s dive into the heartwarming world of Italian flavors.

Let’s get started on this Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans recipe that will surely become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love hearty and flavorful dishes, this Italian chicken recipe is a must-try. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

The combination of ham, basil, and beans creates a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.

The roasted tomatoes and garlic add a rich and savory undertone to the dish, making it a true comfort food indulgence.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying yet easy to prepare.

If you enjoy creamy chicken recipes, the sauce in this dish will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans:

Chicken breasts	4 pieces	Ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
Ham	1 cup, diced	Choose a good quality ham for a smoky flavor.
Basil	1/2 cup, fresh	Use fresh basil for a burst of herbal freshness.
Beans	1 can, drained and rinsed	Opt for cannellini beans for a creamy texture.
Roasted Tomatoes	1 cup	Enhance the flavor with sweet and tangy roasted tomatoes.
Garlic	4 cloves, minced	For a robust garlic flavor, mince the cloves finely.
Summer End	1 bunch	Embrace the essence of summer with this seasonal ingredient.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

2. In a large skillet, brown the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the ham until slightly crispy. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

4. Stir in the roasted tomatoes and beans, then return the chicken to the skillet.

5. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

6. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil and the summer end over the dish for a burst of flavor.

7. Serve the Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans hot with a side of crusty bread or over pasta.

Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to ensure your Italian chicken dish turns out perfectly:

To keep the sauce creamy, avoid overcooking the beans as they can become mushy.

For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked ham instead of regular ham.

Feel free to add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor in the sauce.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a tablespoon of flour with the garlic before adding the tomatoes.

Variations & Substitutions

Here are some creative variations you can try with this Italian chicken recipe:

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken and ham with tofu and sun-dried tomatoes.

To add a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.

For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and bean mixture over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

What to Serve With It

Pair your Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans with these delicious sides:

Garlic bread to soak up the savory sauce.

A crisp green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

A glass of Chianti wine for the perfect Italian dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

To store any leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Italian chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Nutrition Facts

Here are the approximate nutrition values per serving of Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans:

Calories	320
Protein	25g
Carbs	15g
Fat	18g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	2g
Sodium	780mg

This dish is high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ensure a successful cooking experience by avoiding these common mistakes:

Overcooking the chicken can result in a dry and tough texture.

Avoid adding too much salt as ham can already be quite salty.

Don’t skip the fresh basil as it adds a crucial herbal note to the dish.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans:

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

A: While dried basil can be used in a pinch, fresh basil provides a brighter and more aromatic flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I substitute the beans with another legume?

A: Yes, you can use chickpeas or white kidney beans as a substitute for cannellini beans.

Q: How can I make this dish more garlicky?

A: Feel free to increase the amount of garlic according to your preference for a more pronounced garlic flavor.

Conclusion

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering Italian chicken with ham, basil & beans recipe. The delightful blend of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to share your feedback and experience with us!

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like to try my Creamy Chicken Alfredo for another creamy and indulgent meal option.