When it comes to serving up One Pot Rice Beans Chicken, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad can bring a nice crunch and brighten up the meal.
You might also think about adding a slice of warm crusty bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices or sauce on your plate. Guacamole and tortilla chips could add a fun twist, especially if you’re feeling a little adventurous.
Finally, a refreshing beverage like iced tea or sparkling water completes the plate nicely. With options like these, your One Pot Rice Beans Chicken is not just a dish; it becomes part of a delightful dining experience.
Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, the comforting aroma of spices wafting through the air, promising a cozy dinner. That’s what One Pot Rice Beans Chicken offers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is for everyone.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I am passionate about providing healthy and straightforward recipes that anyone can whip up. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul.
You don’t have to be on MasterChef to make it; you just need a love for food and a few essential ingredients, which I promise you probably already have on hand!
What is One Pot Rice Bean Chicken?
One Pot Rice Beans Chicken is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines chicken, rice, and beans in a single pot. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while also minimizing cleanup—a real bonus!
You get savory chicken thighs, tender rice, and protein-packed beans, all nestled in a delicious broth seasoned with spices. This dish is a wonderful representation of comfort food at its best.
You will also like the following Lunch recipes!
- Pizza Hut Breadsticks
- Best Instant Pot Chicken Wings From Fresh Or Frozen Recipe
- California Chicken Breakfast Burrito
Why Does This Recipe Work?
This recipe works for several reasons. First, cooking chicken on the bone enhances flavor and keeps the meat juicy throughout the cooking process. The spices, especially cumin and smoked paprika, bring depth and warmth.
Then we have the rice, which absorbs the broth, becoming fluffy and infused with all that wonderful seasoning. Beans add creaminess and additional protein, making this dish satisfying without being heavy. It’s a balanced meal that is easy to make and incredibly delicious.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather what you need. Here’s a list of ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on: Opt for bone-in for juiciness and flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced: For color and crunch.
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped: A little heat to spice things up.
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken stock: Keeping it low in sodium lets you control the saltiness.
- ⅓ lb cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy bursts of flavor.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Loaded with protein and fiber.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Because garlic makes everything better.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: It gives a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: The perfect base for the dish.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for serving: A fresh finish.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: For that rich, smoky flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: A brightening splash of acidity.
How to Make One Pot Rice Beans Chicken?
Now that you’ve got the ingredients lined up, let’s cook! The process is simple, and you’ll see how everything comes together seamlessly. Below, I’ll break it down into clear steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onions and sauté them until they’re translucent. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will start filling your kitchen—it’s such a comforting sensation! After that, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot. Skin-side down, let them brown for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds rich flavor. After 5 minutes, flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. The golden color you’re aiming for means maximum flavor.
Step 3: Add the Peppers and Spices
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, add the sliced bell peppers and jalapeños to the pot. Stir them in, letting them soften for 3-4 minutes. This is the time to sprinkle in the cumin and smoked paprika. Stir everything together so the spices coat the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquid
Now it’s time to add the chicken stock. Pour it in along with the halved tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Beans
After simmering, stir in the rice and black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot, and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid, turning tender and fluffy.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once the rice is done, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period is essential—just like a good cup of coffee needs a moment before you sip it! Before serving, drizzle fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of brightness.
Tips for Success
Here are some solid tips to ensure your One Pot Rice Beans Chicken turns out amazing:
- Use Quality Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add a lot of flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the jalapeños or reduce their amount.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit before serving helps with flavor infusion.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add other spices like oregano or coriander.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings to your flavor preference as this can vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which might not happen, trust me!), let the dish cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition Information
One serving of One Pot Rice Beans Chicken contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
How Would I Recommend Serving One Pot Rice Beans Chicken?
Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience:
- Serve with Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang.
- Accompany with Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado brings a creamy texture and healthy fats that complement the dish beautifully.
- Top with Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, adds another layer of flavor and richness.
- Pair with Tortillas or Rice: Serve it alongside warm tortillas or even additional side rice for a filling meal option.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
Sometimes, you might find yourself short on ingredients. Here are some great substitutes:
- Chicken: If you don’t have thighs, use boneless breasts—it’ll cook a bit faster but will still be delicious.
- Beans: Kidney or pinto beans are excellent alternatives that will still pack a nutritional punch.
- Rice: If you only have brown rice, adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
- Peppers: Zucchini or carrots can add a sweet crunch in place of peppers.
One Pot Rice Beans Chicken
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 red bell peppers sliced
- 2 jalapeño peppers seeded and finely chopped
- 2½ cups chicken stock preferably low-sodium
- ⅓ lb cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for serving
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onions and sauté them until they’re translucent. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will start filling your kitchen—it’s such a comforting sensation! After that, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot. Skin-side down, let them brown for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds rich flavor. After 5 minutes, flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. The golden color you’re aiming for means maximum flavor.
Step 3: Add the Peppers and Spices
- Once the chicken is beautifully browned, add the sliced bell peppers and jalapeños to the pot. Stir them in, letting them soften for 3-4 minutes. This is the time to sprinkle in the cumin and smoked paprika. Stir everything together so the spices coat the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4: Pour in the Liquid
- Now it’s time to add the chicken stock. Pour it in along with the halved tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Beans
- After simmering, stir in the rice and black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot, and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid, turning tender and fluffy.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Once the rice is done, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period is essential—just like a good cup of coffee needs a moment before you sip it! Before serving, drizzle fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of brightness.
Notes
- Use Quality Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add a lot of flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the jalapeños or reduce their amount.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit before serving helps with flavor infusion.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add other spices like oregano or coriander.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings to your flavor preference as this can vary.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey thighs or pork may also work well. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
3. How can I increase the spiciness of the dish?
You can add extra jalapeños or even include a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce right before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish keeps well and can be made a day in advance. Just reheating it will have the flavors even more developed.
5. What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t available, you can use parsley instead, or simply omit it if you’re not a fan of herbs!
6. Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sear the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Conclusion
One Pot Rice Beans Chicken truly is a celebration of flavor and comfort in a single dish. It’s the kind of food that brings people together around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
You’ve learned how to create this meal easily, and perhaps you’re already dreaming of your next family gathering where this could be the star of the show.
With its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and nutritional benefits, this dish is not just a recipe but an experience. I can’t wait for you to dive in and make it your own! Bon appétit!
