Experience the vibrant flavors of Havana with these Cuban Chicken & Black Bean Rice Bowls. This dish brings together marinated chicken, seasoned black beans, and zesty cilantro-lime rice for a hearty, delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of bold, fresh flavors.
In our home, we love exploring new cuisines, and these Cuban Chicken & Black Bean Rice Bowls have become an instant favorite. My husband often reminisces about our trip to Cuba, and this dish brings back those cherished memories. The kids enjoy the colorful and flavorful bowls, making every meal a fun and festive occasion. This recipe has truly become a staple in our household, providing a delicious and comforting reminder of our travels.
Why This Cuban Chicken & Black Bean Rice Bowl Recipe
- Vibrant Flavors: The marinade of cumin, chili, and citrus zest infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of flavors.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and black beans, and balanced with the refreshing cilantro-lime rice.
- Customizable: Add mango salsa, fried plantains, or your favorite toppings to make it your own.
- Easy Preparation: Simple steps for marinating, cooking, and assembling make this dish perfect for any skill level.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both adults and kids, bringing a taste of Cuban cuisine to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
Chicken:
- 45ml (3 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 14g (2 tbsp) ground cumin
- 8g (1 tbsp) chili powder
- 8g (1 tbsp) dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 garlic cloves
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
Black Beans:
- 10ml (2 tsp) vegetable oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (400g each) black beans, drained
- 4g (2 tsp) ground cumin
- 2g (1 tsp) smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- 5ml (1 tsp) vegetable oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 300g (1 ½ cups) Jasmine rice
- 720ml (3 cups) low sodium chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 30g (½ cup) cilantro, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Chicken:
- In a blender, combine cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, garlic, orange zest and juice, and lime zest and juice. Blend until smooth.
- Place diced chicken in a bowl or Ziploc bag and pour half the marinade over it. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 10-12 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add remaining marinade and cook until reduced slightly, about 5 minutes.
Black Beans:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds. Add black beans and spices, cooking for 5-10 minutes. Mash about half the beans in the pan, then mix together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft.
- Add Jasmine rice and stir to coat with oil, toasting for about a minute. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off heat and let rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Add lime zest and juice, chopped cilantro, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
To Serve:
- Divide cilantro-lime rice among bowls.
- Top with cooked chicken and black beans.
- Optionally, add mango salsa and fried plantains for extra flavor and texture.
Notes:
- Substitutions: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian version. Adjust the marinade and cooking times accordingly.
- Cooking Tips: Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor. Don’t overcook the beans; they should be soft but not mushy.
- Serving Suggestions: These bowls pair wonderfully with a side of fresh avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.
- Nutritional Information: This dish is rich in protein and fiber, providing a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
