There’s nothing quite like the cozy, comforting feeling of a warm, homemade meal after a busy day. This Bean Chicken recipe is exactly that — a hearty, wholesome dish packed with tender chicken and protein-rich beans all simmered together in a flavorful, savory sauce. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners, healthy comfort food, and those days when you want a satisfying high protein meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re juggling a busy family schedule or looking to stick to a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, this one-pan wonder fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly flexible — you can swap beans, add fresh veggies, or adjust the spices to suit your mood or dietary needs. And if you love meal prep microwave lunches or healthy boxed meals for the week, this recipe reheats like a dream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First off, it’s easy and quick — ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish, with minimal prep. The tender chicken thighs or breasts pair beautifully with fiber-packed beans, creating a balanced, high macro meal that satisfies hunger and fuels your day.
You’ll also appreciate how versatile it is. Want it spicy? Toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Looking for a vegetarian twist? Just skip the chicken and double up on the beans and veggies. It’s a meal planning chicken recipe that works hard for you.
The rich, savory sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of smoked paprika adds layers of flavor that will have your whole family asking for seconds. It’s like a warm hug on a plate — healthy eating for two or more, with comforting, homemade goodness.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The magic lies in how simple ingredients come together into something truly special. The combination of herbs like oregano and cumin adds earthiness and warmth, while the smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky note without overpowering the dish. Using canned beans makes this recipe incredibly accessible, but the beans also absorb the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Cooking the chicken first to a golden brown locks in moisture and adds texture, while simmering it gently in the sauce infuses it with those rich, aromatic flavors. The beans bring heartiness and fiber, making this a truly high protein high carb low fat meal that’s filling without being heavy.
This dish fits perfectly into a protein meal plan or anyone’s desire for easy high protein high calorie meals that feel indulgent but are nourishing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for saucier version)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, black beans, or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Optional add-ins: chopped bell peppers, spinach, kale, lemon juice, red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make It Step-by-Step
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, careful not to burn it.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides—about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (if using), beans, and chicken broth. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let cook for 15–20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
- For extra greens, stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes until wilted.
- Finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice for brightness if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use chicken thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat; breasts work well for a leaner option.
- Don’t skip rinsing canned beans to reduce sodium and improve taste.
- Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for a kick.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; this helps deepen the flavors and keeps the chicken tender.
- Add fresh herbs right before serving for vibrant flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, especially if you add greens.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Swap chicken for turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Use different beans like kidney, pinto, or chickpeas based on what you have.
- Substitute diced tomatoes with tomato sauce for a smoother sauce.
- For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream near the end.
- Add other veggies such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to bulk up your best meals to prep.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines when served over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or hearty quinoa for a filling, high protein microwave meal experience. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that rich sauce.
For a lighter, low calorie chicken meal prep option, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies. This makes a great prepared meal for two or a quick lunch on the go.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager for an easy dinner vibe.
For non-alcoholic choices, iced lemon water or a sparkling herbal tea pairs nicely, balancing the rich flavors.
Side salads with fresh greens and a citrus vinaigrette add brightness and texture, while roasted root vegetables bring warmth and heartiness.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works too — just heat in short bursts and stir to keep the chicken moist.
This recipe also freezes well for up to 2 months, though fresh greens are best added fresh when reheating.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Prep the chicken and sauce up to a day in advance to save time on busy nights. Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for longer storage. This is perfect for those using best meal prep plans or healthy boxed meals to simplify weeknight dinners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan when browning chicken, which prevents proper searing.
- Not rinsing canned beans, leading to excess sodium or off-flavors.
- Rushing the simmering process, which keeps flavors from fully developing.
- Adding fresh greens too early, causing them to become soggy and lose nutrients.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments at the end, which can make the dish bland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What beans are best for this recipe?
White beans, black beans, and cannellini are all excellent choices, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Add cooked chicken during the last 10 minutes of simmering to warm through without drying out.
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but you can add cayenne or red pepper flakes to taste.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the chicken and add extra beans and veggies for a protein-packed vegetarian meal.
What sides complement Bean Chicken?
Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad work wonderfully.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Bean Chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months, but add fresh vegetables when reheating.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Can opener
This recipe is an effortless way to enjoy healthy meal plans for two or feed a family with cheap meal plans for 2 that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. It’s perfect for meal prep microwave lunches and makes a wonderful addition to your protein keto meal plan or high protein ready made meals rotation.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Bean Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until lightly browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Uncover and simmer for 5 more minutes to thicken sauce if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
