Easy Chicken, Rice and Beans Recipe

Chicken, rice and beans is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. This wholesome meal combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and hearty beans, creating a satisfying experience for your taste buds. Not only is this dish filling, but it is also packed with nutrients that make it a great choice for families or anyone looking for a nutritious meal. The combination of protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans keeps you full longer while delivering essential vitamins. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making chicken, rice and beans!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Chicken, Rice and Beans
• Ingredients for Chicken, Rice and Beans
• How to Make Chicken, Rice and Beans
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Chicken, Rice and Beans
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Chicken, Rice and Beans
• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
• Choosing the Right Type of Rice
• Neglecting Flavor Development
• Using Canned Beans Without Rinsing
• FAQs
• What is the best way to store leftover Chicken, Rice and Beans?
• Can I customize my Chicken, Rice and Beans recipe?
• Is it necessary to soak dry beans before using them?
• What spices work well with Chicken, Rice and Beans?
• Conclusion for Chicken, Rice and Beans
• 📖 Recipe Card

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken, Rice and Beans

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Chicken, Rice and Beans

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Long-Grain White Rice: Use long-grain white rice for fluffy results; consider rinsing before cooking to remove excess starch
• Canned Black Beans: Rinse these well before using to reduce sodium content; they add protein and fiber
• Fresh Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness; use yellow or white onions based on preference
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; minced garlic works best in this recipe

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while adding depth of flavor
• Cumin Powder: A key spice that brings warmth; adjust according to taste preferences

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Chicken, Rice and Beans

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Rinse the black beans under cold water until clear.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil. Once hot, add seasoned chicken breasts (salt and pepper) and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet. In the same skillet over medium heat, add chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic last for about one minute.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with sautéed onions. Pour in rinsed black beans along with long-grain white rice.

Step 5: Add Broth & Spices

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth enough to cover all ingredients by about an inch. Stir in cumin powder along with any additional spices you prefer.

Step 6: Simmer & Serve

Bring everything to a boil before lowering heat to simmer covered for approximately 20 minutes until rice is cooked through. Once done, fluff everything together gently with a fork before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

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How to Serve Chicken, Rice and Beans

This Chicken, Rice and Beans is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can easily prepare the chicken and beans a day in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least two hours or overnight for maximum flavor. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
• Storing: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing portions for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, about 10 minutes. For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat on high for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Suggestions for Chicken, Rice and Beans

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking chicken can lead to dry, tough meat that lacks flavor. To prevent this, monitor the cooking time closely. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you are using bone-in pieces, they may require a longer cooking time. Always remember that chicken continues to cook a bit after you take it off the heat due to residual heat. This method will ensure juicy and flavorful chicken in your Chicken, Rice and Beans dish.

Choosing the Right Type of Rice

Not all rice is created equal when preparing Chicken, Rice and Beans. Long-grain rice tends to remain fluffy and separate when cooked, while short-grain rice can become sticky. For this recipe, opt for medium or long-grain varieties such as basmati or jasmine rice. They absorb flavors well and complement the chicken perfectly. Also, consider rinsing your rice before cooking to remove excess starch which helps achieve the desired texture.

Neglecting Flavor Development

Developing flavor is crucial in any dish, including Chicken, Rice and Beans. Avoid simply boiling your ingredients without seasoning them properly. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant before adding chicken. This step builds a solid flavor base. Season each layer of your dish as you go; add salt to the beans, spices to the chicken, and herbs at the end for freshness. Each addition contributes depth to your final meal.

Using Canned Beans Without Rinsing

When incorporating canned beans into your Chicken, Rice and Beans recipe, always rinse them first! This simple step removes excess sodium and improves texture by eliminating the sliminess often found in canned products. Rinsed beans also absorb flavors better during cooking, enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Skipping this step can result in a less-than-desirable taste experience.

FAQs

What is the best way to store leftover Chicken, Rice and Beans?

Proper storage of leftover Chicken, Rice and Beans is essential for maintaining freshness and flavor. After cooling down your dish to room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer preservation—up to three months if frozen properly. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop with a splash of water added if necessary; this prevents drying out while warming up.

Can I customize my Chicken, Rice and Beans recipe?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Chicken, Rice and Beans is its versatility. You can adjust spices according to your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and color. Additionally, consider using different types of beans such as black beans or kidney beans for varied textures and flavors that complement the chicken beautifully.

Is it necessary to soak dry beans before using them?

If you’re using dry beans instead of canned ones in your Chicken, Rice and Beans recipe, soaking them beforehand can greatly improve their cooking time and texture. Soaking allows beans to absorb water which reduces overall cooking duration significantly. Overnight soaking is ideal but quick-soaking methods exist if you’re short on time; simply boil them for a few minutes then let them sit covered for an hour before cooking.

What spices work well with Chicken, Rice and Beans?

Spices play a vital role in elevating the flavors in Chicken, Rice and Beans dishes. Common choices include cumin for warmth, paprika for smokiness, or chili powder for heat—each adds unique character to your meal. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also enhance freshness at serving time. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spice blends like taco seasoning or even curry powder depending on your flavor preferences!

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Conclusion for Chicken, Rice and Beans

In summary, creating a delicious bowl of Chicken, Rice and Beans involves understanding key techniques that enhance flavor while avoiding common pitfalls. By ensuring proper cooking times for chicken and selecting appropriate rice types, you’ll create a satisfying meal every time. Remember to develop flavors through seasoning layers effectively while also rinsing canned beans to maintain quality textures throughout the dish. With these tips in mind along with personalized adjustments through spices or additional ingredients—your culinary journey with Chicken, Rice and Beans will be both enjoyable and rewarding!