Creamy Chicken Sausage & White Bean Skillet

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Cost estimate: $8–12 | Serves: 4

Okay, mamas, let’s talk about dinnertime survival. We all know the struggle: hungry kids, limited time, and the looming dread of another boring meal. But fear not! This Chicken Sausage & White Bean Skillet is here to rescue your weeknight dinner routine. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor – even my picky eaters gobble it up. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which is practically a miracle on busy evenings. It’s like a warm hug in a skillet, guaranteed to bring smiles (and maybe even a few requests for seconds!). Get ready to win at dinner tonight!

Why You’ll Love These

Seriously, this skillet is a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation:

• Quick & Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those crazy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup – and who doesn’t love that?
• Packed with Flavor: The creamy sauce, savory sausage, and tender beans create a flavor explosion.
• Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (sweet Italian or spicy Italian work great!)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

How to Make

1. Sauté the Sausage and Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. The sausage should render some delicious fat into the pan – flavor city!
2. Add Garlic and Beans: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and great northern beans to the skillet.Note: Rinsing the beans helps remove excess sodium and makes them easier to digest. Nobody wants bean bloat!
3. Simmer in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.Tip: Don’t skip the simmering step! It’s crucial for developing that rich, comforting flavor.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.Warning: Do not boil the cream! It can curdle and ruin the creamy texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This is delicious on its own or served over pasta, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up all that yummy sauce.

Tips & Tricks

Want to take this skillet to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks:

• Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Sun-dried tomatoes are also a great addition!
• Time-Savers: Use pre-cooked chicken sausage to save even more time. You can also chop the onion ahead of time.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Prep Hack: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy meal later. It freezes beautifully!

Dietary Variations

Need to adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs? No problem! Here are a few simple swaps:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to double-check the label on your chicken sausage to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Lower Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta or bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you like, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I add vegetables to this skillet?

Yes, definitely! Spinach, kale, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini would all be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.