Chicken and Black Beans and Rice

Chicken and Black Beans and Rice Recipe from Brazil

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken and Black Beans and Rice is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of Mexican-style rice pilaf with black beans, corn, scallions, and chicken. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine, which often features a combination of rice, beans, and chicken. The addition of corn, scallions, and cilantro adds a fresh and flavorful twist to this classic dish.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz (227 g)) package of Mexican-style chicken rice pilaf mix
1 (16 oz (454 g)) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup of corn, canned or frozen
1 bunch of scallions, chopped
0.5 cup of pitted black olives, sliced lengthwise
4 cups of cooked diced chicken meat or 0.5 roasting chicken
0.5 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
1 ripe avocado, sliced (or made into guacamole)
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salsa
sour cream (for garnishing)

How to prepare

Prepare the rice following the instructions on the package.
Combine the black beans, corn, scallions, chicken, and cilantro with the rice.
Transfer the mixture to a platter.
Garnish with avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use quinoa or brown rice instead of Mexican-style rice pilaf for a healthier twist.
Top with crushed tortilla chips or avocado slices for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse and drain the black beans before adding them to the dish to remove any excess salt or preservatives.

- For a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken and Black Beans and Rice with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

To cook the chicken, you can either grill, bake, or sauté it until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

- Be sure to stir the rice pilaf occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Mexican-style rice pilaf mix, you can use regular white rice and add your own seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.

- Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or protein sources such as shrimp or tofu.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and chicken ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the dish. Simply reheat the rice and chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken and Black Beans and Rice in a large serving bowl or platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped scallions or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican street corn, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of warm tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until it is heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken and Black Beans and Rice contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken and Black Beans and Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken and Black Beans and Rice contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken and Black Beans and Rice contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and tree nuts (guacamole). Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

Chicken and Black Beans and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a family dinner.

Summary

Chicken and Black Beans and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, this dish is a nutritious and delicious choice for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken and Black Beans and Rice. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother with the chores around the house. As we sat down for lunch, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook that she had inherited from her own mother. Flipping through the pages, she came across a recipe that caught her eye.

"This looks delicious," she exclaimed, pointing to the recipe for Chicken and Black Beans and Rice. "I think we should give it a try."

I watched as she gathered all the ingredients we would need - chicken, black beans, rice, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. As she began to cook, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the way she moved around the kitchen with such ease and confidence.

As the aroma of the dish filled the air, I could hardly contain my excitement. Finally, it was time to sit down and taste the fruits of our labor. The first bite was a revelation - the flavors danced on my tongue, each one complementing the other in perfect harmony.

From that day on, Chicken and Black Beans and Rice became a staple in our household. My mother would often make it for special occasions, and it never failed to impress our guests. As I grew older, I began to learn the recipe myself, taking note of my mother's techniques and adding my own twist to it.

Over the years, I have made Chicken and Black Beans and Rice countless times, each batch a little different from the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews. But the true joy comes from knowing that this dish has been passed down through generations, a link to my past and a connection to my heritage.

I remember the first time I made Chicken and Black Beans and Rice for my own family. My children watched in awe as I effortlessly prepared the ingredients and cooked the dish to perfection. As we sat down to eat, I could see the same sense of wonder in their eyes that I had felt so many years ago.

As they took their first bite, I knew that I had succeeded in passing on a piece of our family history. This recipe, with its rich flavors and comforting warmth, would continue to bring joy and nourishment to future generations.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this moment, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life - a good meal shared with loved ones, a recipe that has stood the test of time, and the knowledge that some things truly do get better with age.