Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious chicken and bean recipes to spice up your meal routine. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or creamy, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please.
From classic burritos to hearty stews and soups, our collection of chicken and bean recipes is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, many of these dishes can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, with recipes that blend international flavors and spices with good old-fashioned comfort food. From spicy chipotle chicken to creamy cannellini bean soup, every dish is packed with flavor and easy to make.
So why settle for boring, bland meals when you can have something amazing? Dive in and explore our collection of 20 flavorful chicken and bean recipes today!
Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Burritos
A flavorful twist on traditional burritos, these spicy chicken and black bean wraps are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go. With the combination of juicy chicken, creamy beans, and crunchy veggies, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble burritos by filling with chicken mixture, black beans, and cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Chicken Chili
A comforting and flavorful chili recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
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 cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Cannellini Beans
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this easy and satisfying Garlic Butter Chicken with Cannellini Beans recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add olive oil to the skillet. Add cannellini beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over each breast.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Pinto Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with the richness of pinto beans and tender chicken. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken back to the pot, along with pinto beans and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Garbanzo Bean Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing salad featuring tangy lemon herb chicken, crunchy garbanzo beans, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and parsley. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon herb mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, combine garbanzo beans and mixed greens in a large bowl.
5. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
6. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Chicken and Kidney Beans
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the spicy kick of Mexican seasoning with the comfort of tender chicken and creamy kidney beans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned chicken back to the pot.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in kidney beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken and Baked Beans
Get ready for a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering! This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken and Baked Beans recipe is a classic combination of tender chicken, sweet beans, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 can (16 oz) baked beans
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and 1/4 cup water. Pour over the chicken.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the baked beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Red Bean Jambalaya
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of spicy Cajun chicken with tender red beans, all wrapped up in a savory one-pot meal. This jambalaya is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked red kidney beans (canned or homemade)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in red beans, chicken broth, and any accumulated juices from the chicken.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Chicken and Green Curry Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and vibrant green curry beans. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized green beans, trimmed
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
– 2 tbsp Thai green curry paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the green curry paste and cumin; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and stir to coat with the curry sauce.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Navy Beans
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken and beans, this recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with the comfort of navy beans.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the navy beans, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper.
6. Place the chicken back in the skillet and spoon some of the bean mixture over each breast.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the richness of melted cheese, the savory flavor of chicken, and the bold taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, black beans, and half of the cheddar cheese.
3. Brush tortillas with olive oil and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Rosemary Garlic Chicken and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the aromatic flavors of rosemary and garlic with tender chicken and creamy white beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the garlic and rosemary in a little oil until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Butter Bean Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering combination of jerk chicken and butter bean rice.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Butter Bean Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Add rinsed red kidney beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Serve chicken on top of butter bean rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Harissa Chicken and Chickpea Sheet Pan Dinner
This vibrant sheet pan dinner combines the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Spicy harissa chicken pairs perfectly with tender chickpeas, crispy vegetables, and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp harissa paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat; set aside.
4. On a sheet pan, arrange the chicken, chickpeas, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Cannellini Bean Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and filling dish that combines tender chicken, creamy pesto, and hearty cannellini beans. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in pesto and garlic powder. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cannellini beans to the skillet and stir to combine with chicken and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and bean mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Edamame Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory fusion of Japanese flavors, this Teriyaki Chicken and Edamame Stir-Fry is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked edamame to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of Morocco with tender chicken and nutritious lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Pinto Bean Dip
Get ready to kick up your snack game with this creamy, spicy, and savory dip that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and pinto beans. Perfect for game day parties or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast (buffalo-style)
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and crumbled blue cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chicken, and hot sauce. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Great Northern Bean Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of herbed chicken, creamy beans, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the Great Northern beans, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Arrange half of the bean mixture in the bottom of the dish. Top with the chicken mixture, then cover with the remaining bean mixture.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and dot with parsley.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful chicken and bean recipes! From burritos to skillets, soups to dips, these dishes are perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Try Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Burritos, Creamy White Bean and Chicken Chili, or Garlic Butter Chicken with Cannellini Beans. Or, if you’re in the mood for something international, try Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Skillet or Thai Coconut Chicken and Green Curry Beans. With a wide range of flavors and cuisines to choose from, there’s something for everyone. So why wait? Start cooking and make your weeknights more flavorful!