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Hearty Chicken Rice and Bean Bowl

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A quick and wholesome meal combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy beans with smoky spices and fresh toppings, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 185 g), rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of half a lime
  • Optional: diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Let it sit while you start the rice (about 5 minutes).
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups (480 ml) of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, stir once, cover with a tight lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  3. While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the rinsed and drained beans. Stir gently, cooking over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If the skillet is dry, splash a teaspoon of olive oil to keep beans glossy.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it between serving bowls. Top with the warm beans and cooked chicken pieces.
  6. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over each bowl, squeeze lime juice on top, and add optional diced avocado or cheese if desired.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning. Rinse rice thoroughly to avoid clumping. Warm beans gently with a splash of olive oil to keep them glossy. For meal prep, store components separately to preserve texture. This recipe is freezer-friendly without fresh toppings.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken rice bowl, bean bowl, easy dinner, wholesome meal, quick recipe, meal prep, gluten-free, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/hearty-chicken-rice-and-bean-bowl-recipe-for-easy-wholesome-meals/