Chicken with Beans: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Chicken with Beans: a culinary hug in a bowl! Have you ever craved a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, comforting and convenient? Look no further! This recipe delivers on all fronts, offering a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you completely satisfied.

The beauty of Chicken with Beans lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While variations exist across cultures, the core concept – tender chicken simmered with protein-packed beans – remains a constant. In many Latin American countries, similar stews are a staple, passed down through generations and often featuring local spices and vegetables. Think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

What makes this dish so universally loved? For starters, it’s incredibly flavorful. The savory chicken broth, infused with herbs and spices, melds perfectly with the creamy texture of the beans. It’s also a nutritional powerhouse, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. And let’s not forget the convenience factor! This recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld and deepen. So, are you ready to discover your new favorite comfort food?

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when we sear them. Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy!
2. Now, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the pot is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This is key for getting a good sear.
3. Add the chicken to the pot in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd it. If you overcrowd the pot, the chicken will steam instead of sear. You might need to do this in batches. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked all the way through at this point, just browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.
5. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
6. Add the minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened. The aroma at this point should be amazing!

Combining and Simmering:

1. Now it’s time to add all the good stuff! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the pot with the vegetables. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This helps to bloom the spices and release their flavors.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained). Stir to combine.
3. Add the black beans and kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything together.
4. Pour in the chicken broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits (fond). These browned bits are packed with flavor!
5. Return the seared chicken to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. After simmering, taste the chicken with beans and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve the chicken with beans hot, garnished with your favorite toppings. Some great options include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices.
2. This dish is also delicious served over rice or with a side of cornbread.
3. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. If you’re sensitive to spice, omit it altogether.
• Chicken: You can also use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
• Beans: Feel free to substitute other types of beans, such as pinto beans or cannellini beans.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or carrots.
• Slow Cooker: This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Instant Pot: For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot. Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
• Smoked Sausage: Add sliced smoked sausage for a heartier meal. Brown the sausage along with the chicken.
• Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors.
• Cornbread Croutons: Top with crumbled cornbread for a delightful textural contrast.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Detailed Notes on Ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they are more flavorful and stay moist during cooking. However, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure not to overcook them.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for cooking, but you can use any cooking oil you prefer, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder is a blend of spices, typically including chili peppers, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. You can find it in most grocery stores.
• Cumin: Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that is commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor to the dish. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Oregano: Oregano is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat to the dish. Use it sparingly if you’re sensitive to spice.
• Diced Tomatoes: I prefer using diced tomatoes in a can, but you can also use fresh diced tomatoes.
• Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel): Rotel is a brand of diced tomatoes and green chilies. It adds a bit of heat and flavor to the dish. If you can’t find Rotel, you can use regular diced tomatoes and add a can of chopped green chilies.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish. You can use store-bought chicken broth or homemade chicken broth.
• Black Beans and Kidney Beans: Rinsing and draining the beans helps to remove excess starch and sodium.

Troubleshooting:

• Chicken is Dry: If the chicken is dry, it’s likely that it was overcooked. Next time, try reducing the cooking time or using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
• Sauce is Too Thick: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Sauce is Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer the dish uncovered for a longer period of time to allow the sauce to reduce. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the sauce.
• Not Enough Flavor: If the dish doesn’t have enough flavor, add more spices, such as chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Too Spicy: If the dish is too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt to cool it down. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.

Conclusion:

This Chicken with Beans recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic spices to the creamy, comforting beans simmered in a rich, savory sauce, every bite is a delightful experience. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Want to make it even healthier? Substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. The possibilities are endless!

And speaking of possibilities, let’s talk serving suggestions. This Chicken with Beans is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the flavorful sauce to soak in and create a truly satisfying meal. For a lighter option, try serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a fresh, vibrant salad. You could even turn it into a hearty burrito filling by wrapping it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.

Looking for variations? Consider using different types of beans. Cannellini beans offer a creamy texture, while kidney beans provide a bolder flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth, while a dash of cumin brings warmth and earthiness. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it always receives rave reviews. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal, but it’s also impressive enough to serve to guests. The aroma alone will have everyone’s mouths watering!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this Chicken with Beans recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to please.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on the recipe page. Let me know what variations you tried and what your family thought. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so relax, experiment, and most importantly, savor every bite of your delicious Chicken with Beans.