Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 mouth-watering chicken and black bean recipes! Chicken and black beans are a match made in heaven, offering a perfect balance of protein and fiber. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like a warm casserole or something quick and easy like a stir-fry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 recipes that combine the flavors of chicken and black beans in creative and delicious ways. From classic dishes like enchiladas and chili to more modern twists like tacos and quesadillas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy chicken, black beans, and melted cheese to create a deliciously satisfying Mexican-inspired dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans, cilantro, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over low heat.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken mixture onto tortilla, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over top and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the protein-packed punch of chicken with the fiber-rich goodness of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tender black beans, and rich chili spices to create a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the smokiness of grilled chicken, the creaminess of black beans, and the crunch of fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat black beans in a pan with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cumin.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken, adding black beans, and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the richness of chicken and black beans with the warmth of melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, black beans, and 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet, then spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, then fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is lightly browned and cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of quesadillas prepared.
Black Bean and Chicken Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of black beans, chicken, and cheese for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. In a separate bowl, combine milk and shredded cheese. Add cooked chicken mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of chicken, black beans, and spices that will warm your soul on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Burrito Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the creaminess of black beans with juicy chicken, all wrapped up in a vibrant burrito bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and cooked black beans. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve chicken on top of cooked rice, surrounded by the bean mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Stir-Fry
This recipe is a perfect combination of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option for any time of the day. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, black beans, soy sauce, and cumin. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad that combines the flavors of black beans, chicken, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful empanadas, packed with tender chicken, creamy black beans, and spices. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, black beans, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until empanadas are golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes, this recipe combines the comfort of roasted chicken with the boldness of black beans and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until heated through, breaking up any clumps with a spoon.
5. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, slice in half lengthwise and fluff flesh with a fork.
6. Divide the chicken and bean mixture among the sweet potatoes, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Nachos
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of tender chicken, creamy black beans, and crunchy tortilla chips. This recipe is perfect for a quick gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked chicken, black beans, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the chicken-black bean mixture over the chips, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Fajitas
This recipe combines the bold flavors of black beans and chicken with the classic spices of fajitas, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add bell peppers, onions, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Rice Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, black beans, and rice in one convenient skillet dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and quick cooking time, this meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat cooking spray or oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add rice, water, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cover skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Tamales
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe for Black Bean and Chicken Tamales.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 corn husks (fresh or dried)
– 1 cup masa harina (corn flour)
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender.
3. Add the cooked chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the masa harina and lard or shortening. Gradually add water as needed to form a thick dough.
5. Assemble the tamales by spreading a thin layer of dough on each corn husk, then adding a spoonful of the chicken mixture.
6. Fold the sides and roll the tamale up, securing with a strip of corn husk or string.
7. Place the assembled tamales in a steamer basket, cover with cheesecloth, and steam for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Chicken and Black Bean Lasagna
This recipe combines the comfort of lasagna with the bold flavors of chicken, black beans, and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken, black beans, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of black beans, the savory flavor of chicken, and the crunch of toasted tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, black beans, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place tortillas on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
5. Assemble tostadas by spreading a layer of the chicken-black bean mixture onto each tortilla.
6. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Cornbread Pie
A savory twist on traditional cornbread pie, this recipe combines the comfort of chicken and beans with the warmth of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cornbread mix, melted butter, and grated cheese.
5. Pour the chicken mixture into a pie dish or 9-inch square baking dish. Top with the cornbread mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Black Bean and Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Savor the flavors of Mexico-inspired comfort food with this simple recipe that combines juicy chicken, black beans, and zesty spices inside hollowed-out zucchinis. A perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture.
5. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the flavors of chicken and black beans! From classic enchiladas and tacos to innovative twists like stuffed sweet potatoes and lasagna, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why settle for bland when you can have bold? Dive into the world of spicy chicken and black bean cooking with these 20 flavorful recipes!
