Irresistible Cuban Chicken & Black Bean Rice Bowls Recipe

The aroma of Cuban Chicken and Black Bean Rice Bowls is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine tender chicken marinated in zesty citrus, mingling with savory black beans and fluffy rice, all while a medley of spices dances in the background. This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with warmth and happiness, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.

I remember the first time I tried this recipe at a friend’s potluck. It was like a flavor explosion! Everyone gathered around, inhaling the intoxicating scents wafting from the kitchen, eagerly anticipating their first bite. Trust me, once you dig into these Cuban Chicken and Black Bean Rice Bowls, you’ll understand why they’re an instant classic. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that promises not just satisfaction but a fiesta for your taste buds!

I’ll never forget how my cousin couldn’t stop raving about this dish at our family reunion last summer!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; it really elevates the dish!
• Black Beans: Canned black beans work great; just rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Use long-grain rice for fluffy texture; brown rice can be used for added nutrition.
• Cumin and Paprika: These spices add depth; I love using smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors beautifully; bottled lime juice just won’t cut it!
• Bell Peppers: Add color and crunch; I like using red or yellow for sweetness.
• Cilantro: A handful of fresh cilantro brings everything together with its refreshing taste.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling; it brings richness without overpowering flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, and paprika. Place chicken in and let it soak up those amazing flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Veggies: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and sauté until they soften and turn vibrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add the Chicken to the Mix: Toss in your marinated chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides—around 6-7 minutes per side works well!

Cook the Rice While It’s Simmering: In another pot, prepare your rice according to package instructions—fluffiness is key here! You want that perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Add Black Beans to the Skillet: Once chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), drain and rinse black beans before adding them to your skillet. Stir gently until everything is heated through.

Assemble Your Bowls!: Serve fluffy rice topped with flavorful chicken and black bean mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added pop of color and flavor—voilà! Dinner is served! For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner ideas recipe.

Now gather everyone around because these delightful Cuban Chicken & Black Bean Rice Bowls are about to become your new go-to favorite! Enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this appetizers and snacks recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors, then cook the rice while the chicken sizzles. This timing ensures everything finishes simultaneously and stays hot.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap black beans for pinto beans or add corn for sweetness. Extra toppings like avocado or cilantro can elevate your bowl further!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Sometimes, I whip up these bowls for friends’ game nights, and everyone raves about them, especially when paired with a refreshing drink!

FAQ

What can I substitute if I don’t have black beans?

You can use pinto beans or even chickpeas instead of black beans.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep ingredients in advance and cook right before serving for optimal freshness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Cuban Chicken and Black Bean Rice Bowls

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cuban Chicken and Black Bean Rice Bowls are a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender, marinated chicken with savory black beans and fluffy rice. Infused with zesty lime and aromatic spices, this easy-to-make bowl is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its colorful presentation and irresistible taste, it promises to be a hit at any table. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this satisfying meal!

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red or yellow)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by combining olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, and paprika in a bowl. Add chicken and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides (6-7 minutes per side).
4. Cook rice according to package instructions in a separate pot.
5. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, add rinsed black beans to the skillet and stir until heated through.
6. Serve the chicken and bean mixture over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 80mg