Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This Chicken and Pork and Beans dish is a fantastic blend of savory chicken, sweet and tangy pork and beans, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, requires minimal cleanup, and is guaranteed to please the whole family. This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic comfort food, transforming a simple pantry staple into a satisfying and healthy meal. It's one of those easy recipes that's both quick dinner ideas and a fantastic homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can pork and beans, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps develop a deeper flavor in your dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the undrained pork and beans, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Pork and Beans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Chicken and Pork and Beans recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and a delightful example of easy recipes done right. Enjoy!