We’ve always been fans of hearty, wholesome recipes that bring a bit of Italian flair to the kitchen, and our Chicken and Escarole dish is a perfect example. This comforting meal pairs tender chicken with the fresh, slightly bitter greens of escarole for a nutritious twist that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Drawing from classic Italian traditions, it’s a go-to option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. We’ll show you how everyday ingredients come together to create something truly delicious and good for you.
Ingredients
For our Chicken and Escarole recipe, we gather simple, fresh ingredients that capture the essence of hearty Italian flavors. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’ll be used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat for quick searing and tender results.
- Escarole: 1 large head fresh escarole, washed thoroughly and roughly chopped to preserve its crisp, slightly bitter greens that wilt beautifully in the dish.
- Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, minced for a fragrant base that infuses the chicken with robust flavor.
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced to add a sweet, savory depth as it cooks alongside the chicken.
- Broth and Liquids: 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth to create a light, nourishing broth that highlights the natural tastes of the ingredients.
- Seasonings: 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing, providing a rich, golden finish; 1 teaspoon dried oregano for an authentic Italian herb note; and salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our hearty Chicken and Escarole recipe with simple steps that highlight fresh flavors and textures. Let’s transform those everyday ingredients into a nutritious Italian-inspired meal.
Prep
First, we gather and prepare the ingredients in order to ensure smooth cooking. Begin by rinsing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels; cut them into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Next, wash a large head of escarole thoroughly, remove the tough outer leaves, and chop it into 2-inch strips to preserve its crisp texture.
Then, peel and dice 1 medium onion into small pieces and mince 3 cloves of garlic for aromatic depth. Measure out 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper to have them ready. This prep sets the stage for a dish where tender chicken meets the slight bitterness of escarole, creating a balanced and satisfying bite.
Cook
We move to the stovetop to build layers of flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; once shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
Add the prepared chicken pieces to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning them until they are lightly browned on all sides for a juicy texture. Stir in the chopped escarole, 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper; bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the escarole wilts and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, infusing the dish with earthy greens and savory notes.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this simple Chicken and Escarole recipe with you. It’s a go-to for us when we want a nutritious meal that packs Italian flair without the fuss.
By trying it, you’ll discover how easy it is to create wholesome dishes that nourish our bodies and delight our senses. Let’s keep cooking up fresh, flavorful meals together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken and Escarole?
Chicken and Escarole is a hearty Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked with fresh escarole greens in a flavorful broth. It’s a nutritious, easy-to-make meal that combines simple ingredients for a satisfying dinner, perfect for busy weeknights or family meals.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, a large head of escarole, minced garlic, diced onion, low-sodium chicken broth, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. These fresh, everyday items create authentic Italian flavors with minimal effort.
How do I prepare Chicken and Escarole?
Start by washing and cutting the chicken and escarole, then dicing the onion and mincing garlic. Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil, add and brown the chicken, then mix in escarole, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil and simmer until the escarole wilts and chicken is cooked, about 20-30 minutes.
Is Chicken and Escarole a healthy dish?
Yes, it’s nutritious, packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from escarole, a leafy green. Using low-sodium broth and olive oil keeps it heart-healthy, making it a wholesome option for a balanced, low-calorie meal.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Absolutely, swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat, or use kale instead of escarole for a similar bitter green. Adjust seasonings to taste, but stick to olive oil and broth for the authentic Italian essence—experimenting keeps it fresh while maintaining flavor.
How long does it take to cook Chicken and Escarole?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and cooking takes 20-30 minutes of simmering. The entire recipe can be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for quick, wholesome dinners without compromising on taste.
What does Chicken and Escarole taste like?
It offers a savory blend of tender chicken with the slight bitterness of escarole, balanced by garlic, onion, and oregano. The result is a comforting, earthy flavor with a hint of Italian herbs, creating a warm, satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.