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Caribbean Chicken and Rice Recipe

Caribbean Chicken and Rice Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 6 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Caribbean Chicken and Rice dish combining tender, seasoned chicken thighs with aromatic rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, and fresh vegetables, garnished with cilantro and served with zesty lime wedges. This one-pan meal offers a perfect balance of spices and textures, ideal for a comforting and hearty dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Vegetables and Rice

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas

Garnish and Serving

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Toast the rice: Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly, which enhances its flavor.
  4. Add liquids and beans: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and black beans. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, covering the skillet. Simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  5. Finish cooking: Stir in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to complete cooking and allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Fluff the rice mixture with a fork. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for added zest.

Notes

  • For spicier heat, increase cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or add hot sauce to taste.
  • Use chicken breasts if preferred, adjusting cooking time as needed to avoid dryness.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk during simmering.
  • This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated; adding a little extra broth may be necessary to moisten the rice.
  • Garnishes can be customized with sliced green onions or avocado for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean chicken, chicken and rice, one-pan meal, black beans, flavorful chicken, easy dinner, Caribbean cuisine

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/caribbean-chicken-and-rice-recipe/