Creole White Beans with Chicken: A Hearty Southern Delight

There’s something magical about Creole cuisine. It’s a symphony of bold spices, fresh vegetables, and comforting warmth, making every dish feel like a celebration. Today, we’re diving into a classic: Creole White Beans with Chicken. This dish is perfect for those seeking a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to explore Creole flavors, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creole White Beans with Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and deeply comforting. Plus, it’s versatile – enjoy it alone or served over a bed of rice for a complete, stick-to-your-ribs dinner. It’s perfect for meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply indulging in some soul-satisfying comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. navy beans (dry)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 yellow onion
• 4 stalks celery
• 2 green bell peppers
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1/2 bunch fresh parsley
• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin removed)
• 2 Tbsp Creole Seasoning
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 Tbsp smoked paprika
• Freshly cracked pepper
• 6 cups water

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Instructions

1. Prep the Beans: Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water. Soak overnight in the refrigerator OR use the quick soak method: bring beans to a boil over high heat, boil for one minute, then turn off the heat and let sit, covered, for one hour. Drain the beans in a colander.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Mince the garlic and dice the onion, celery, and bell peppers. Pull the parsley leaves from the stems and give them a rough chop. Add the olive oil, garlic, and onion to a large pot and sauté over medium heat until the onions become translucent (3-5 minutes). Add celery and bell peppers, sauté a few minutes more until slightly softened.
3. Add Chicken and Spices: Remove the skin from the chicken thighs and trim excess fat if desired. Nestle the chicken thighs into the sautéed vegetables.
4. Simmer: Add soaked beans, a handful of parsley, Creole seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, freshly cracked pepper, and six cups of water. Stir gently. Cover the pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for two hours, ensuring a consistent simmer.
5. Shred Chicken: After two hours, check the beans for tenderness. Remove chicken thighs, shred the meat with two forks, and discard bones if using bone-in thighs.
6. Thicken the Broth: Use a wooden spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the liquid. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Finish and Serve: Return shredded chicken to the pot, top with remaining parsley, and serve hot, either alone or over rice.

Tips and Variations

• Beans: If short on time, canned navy beans can be used. Reduce simmer time to 30 minutes.
• Protein: Swap chicken thighs for smoked sausage, Andouille sausage, or even turkey.
• Spice Level: Adjust Creole seasoning to taste. Add cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers store beautifully! Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

Food Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty French bread. For drinks, a cold lager or a crisp white wine complements the spices nicely.

FAQ

1. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes! Boneless thighs will cook slightly faster, so check them around the 90-minute mark.

3. How do I make this spicier? Add cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Final Thoughts

Creole White Beans with Chicken is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of Creole magic to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy.

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