If you're looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this Chicken and Bean Stew! Bursting with flavor and packed with protein, this American classic is not only easy to make but also perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a delicious meal that serves six, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the diced chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder, then add to the hot pan and brown on all sides for about 5-6 minutes, creating a nice golden color.
- Remove the browned chicken and set aside on a plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and drained black beans, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can dice the chicken, chop the onion, and mince the garlic a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your stew. Consider adding a handful of chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Customize Your Beans: While black beans are a great choice, feel free to experiment with other beans like kidney or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions.
- Thickening the Stew: For a thicker stew, mash some of the black beans against the side of the pot with a fork before serving. This will create a creamy texture without needing to add any thickeners.
- Make It a Meal: Serve your stew with crusty bread or over rice to make it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
