Easy Chicken Rice and Beans Recipe

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Looking for a quick, flavorful, and wholesome dinner idea? This Chicken rice and beans recipe is packed with lean protein, hearty beans, and zesty spices — all in one easy skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners. Let’s get cooking!

Chicken rice and beans is one of those down-to-earth meals that manages to be comforting, filling, and surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe checks all the boxes — tasty, balanced, and endlessly flexible.

I’ve been making this dish for years in my Florida kitchen, and let me tell you — it never gets old. It’s got everything going for it: lean, juicy chicken, fiber-rich beans, and wholesome brown rice, all brought together with warm spices and a splash of salsa. You can dress it up with fresh toppings or keep it simple. Either way, it’s always a win. Ready to bring some flavor to your table? Let’s dive in!

If you’re curious about other comforting dishes, this savory chicken over rice recipe is a great weekday go-to.

Table of contents

Main Ingredients for Chicken Rice and Beans
Additional Ingredients & Substitutes
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Rice and Beans
Recommended Techniques
Step-by-Step Instructions
Additional Guide: Variations & Special Touches
FAQs About Chicken Rice and Beans
Conclusion

Main Ingredients for Chicken Rice and Beans

To get the best flavor and nutrition from this chicken rice and beans recipe, you’ll want to gather the following core ingredients:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (4 oz each): Lean protein that cooks up tender and juicy.
3 teaspoons chili powder: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy base.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon black pepper: A dash of heat to round things out.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
2 teaspoons canola oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained: Full of fiber and iron.
1 cup frozen corn: Adds a pop of sweetness and color.
1 cup salsa: Choose your favorite variety — mild, medium, or hot.
2 cups hot cooked brown rice: Nutty, filling, and packed with nutrients.

These ingredients are staples in many kitchens, and when they come together, they create magic. Seriously.

Additional Ingredients & Substitutes

Now, if you’re feeling adventurous or need to work with what you’ve got, here are some excellent additions and swaps:

Cilantro (fresh, minced): Adds a fresh herbal note — totally optional but delightful.
Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack on top? Yes, please!
Lime wedges: Squeeze a bit over the top for a citrusy zing.
Avocado slices: Creamy and dreamy, they balance the spice.
White rice or quinoa: Great alternatives if you’re out of brown rice.
Pinto or kidney beans: Can be subbed in for black beans if you prefer. Try them in another delicious recipe: Jerk chicken and rice recipe.
Olive oil or avocado oil: Both work well in place of canola.

For mushroom lovers, this cozy chicken rice mushroom soup brings earthy flavor and hearty comfort.

Use what you’ve got — this recipe is super forgiving. That’s one of the things I love about it.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Rice and Beans

Let’s talk real-life cooking tips. These are the little gems I’ve picked up after making this chicken rice and beans meal more times than I can count:

Pound your chicken breasts. Not into heavy lifting? A rolling pin wrapped in plastic works wonders. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
Use a cast-iron skillet. It holds heat well and gives your chicken a gorgeous sear. Plus, it’s oven-safe if you want to melt cheese on top at the end.
Let the chicken rest. After cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps those tasty juices inside.
Spice it to your taste. Start with less chili powder if you’re spice-sensitive. You can always add more salsa or hot sauce later.
Batch cook the rice. Make extra rice at the start of the week — it reheats beautifully and saves time.
Add ingredients in layers. Let the beans, corn, and salsa simmer together before reuniting with the chicken. It deepens the flavor.

Craving something richer? You’ll love this indulgent rice with butter chicken — bold, creamy, and absolutely comforting.

Most of all, don’t stress. This recipe is easygoing, just like a good friend.

Recommended Techniques

Here’s how to make this chicken rice and beans dish even easier:

Preheat your skillet before adding oil for the perfect sear.
Marinate chicken with the spices for 10–15 minutes if you’ve got time.
Cook in batches if your pan’s small — overcrowding makes everything steam instead of sear.
Simmer salsa, corn, and beans for at least 5 minutes so they meld together.
Use leftover chicken if you’re in a hurry — rotisserie works wonders!

Not in the mood to stand over the stove? This hands-off dump-and-bake chicken tzatziki with rice recipe might be just what you need.

These tips save time and boost flavor. Win-win.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken breasts.
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm. In the same skillet, stir in the black beans, frozen corn, and salsa.
Let the bean and corn mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Slice or dice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Let everything mingle for another couple of minutes.
Serve over hot cooked brown rice and garnish with cilantro if using.
Optional: Top with cheese, avocado, or a squeeze of lime — or all three!

Prefer a stir-fry style? You can also explore Chinese chicken fried rice for a quick and satisfying variation.

Easy, right?

Additional Guide: Variations & Special Touches

This chicken rice and beans recipe is like your favorite pair of jeans — comfy, reliable, and goes with anything. Here are a few fun twists to try:

Tex-Mex Style: Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra crunch and color.
Burrito Bowl: Serve it all in a bowl with chopped romaine, guac, and tortilla chips on the side.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or chipotle powder. Spice lovers might enjoy this aromatic Vijayawada chicken biryani as an adventurous alternative.
Cheesy Bake: Sprinkle with shredded cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes until melty and bubbly.
Meal Prep Magic: Divide into containers with rice on the bottom and toppings on the side — lunch is done!
For a fresh and vibrant twist: Give green rice and chicken a try — it’s packed with herbs and bright flavors.
If you’re into sweet and savory combos: Give this teriyaki chicken and rice a spin — it’s always a hit.

If you love global twists on comfort food, check out this flavorful Malay chicken rice recipe that adds a Southeast Asian flair.

Your kitchen, your rules.

FAQs About Chicken Rice and Beans

Is rice, beans, and chicken a healthy meal?

Yes! It’s a balanced meal with lean protein, fiber, and complex carbs. Together, they keep you full and energized.

Is it healthy to eat rice and beans together?

Definitely. Rice and beans form a complete protein, making them a fantastic choice for a nutritious, meat-free base.

Can chickens eat beans and rice?

Cooked rice is fine for chickens, but raw or undercooked beans can be toxic. Always consult with a vet or do thorough research before feeding kitchen scraps to backyard birds.

Conclusion

There you have it — a flavorful, feel-good chicken rice and beans recipe that’s easy enough for busy weeknights and tasty enough for guests. It’s wholesome, filling, and endlessly flexible.

If you’re someone who loves comforting meals without the fuss (and who doesn’t?), this one’s a keeper. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.

Looking for another hearty option? Try this cozy Turkey rice broccoli casserole that’s perfect for using up leftovers.

Got questions or your own tasty twist to share? I’d love to hear from you in the comments! Until next time, keep cooking with heart.

Warmly,