Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of citrus with the heartiness of chicken, rice, and beans. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for a well-rounded meal. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic cilantro, and the tangy sweetness of oranges creates a perfect balance for any dining occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With ingredients that are affordable and easy to find, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Secondly, the flavor profile is versatile, appealing to both adults and children. The citrus marinade ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the rice and beans provide a wholesome base. Finally, it’s highly adaptable; you can customize it with different fruits or sides to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

How to Make Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss

Making this delicious dish is straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a flavorful meal in no time!

Ingredients:

1/4 – 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, grated
Juice of 2 oranges (about 4–5 tbsp juice) + zest
3 tbsp brown sugar
3 tbsp avocado oil
2 tbsp white vinegar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Wood or metal skewers (optional)
One 8.8-ounce pouch pre-made yellow rice (or homemade)
One 14-ounce can refried or regular black beans
1–2 cups diced pineapple, mango, and/or avocado (optional)

Directions:

Soak skewers if using. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and position the oven rack near the broiler.
In a large bowl, mix chicken with half of the cilantro orange sauce.
Thread chicken onto skewers (if using) or spread the chicken pieces on the baking sheet.
Broil for 12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Mix remaining sauce with diced pineapple, mango, or avocado to make a fruit salsa (optional).
Serve chicken with yellow rice, black beans, and optional fruit salsa.

How to Serve Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss

Serving this dish is easy and can be customized to your liking. Arrange the chicken on a large platter alongside fluffy yellow rice and a bowl of black beans. If you’re making the fruit salsa, place it in a small bowl for guests to add as they please. For an added touch, garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges to enhance the citrus flavor. This layout not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows everyone to mix and match their portions.

How to Store Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss

If you find that you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the beans and rice if possible, as they may lose their texture when reheated together. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken, rice, and beans separately in freezer-safe containers. They should retain their quality for about 2 months.

Tips to Make Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss

Marinate the chicken: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to deepen the flavors even more.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro, juicy oranges, and high-quality chicken will make a noticeable difference in taste.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add more brown sugar to the marinade.
Add more vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini to the baking sheet for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variations

Spicy Option: If you like spice, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take on this dish.
Salsa Variations: Try swapping out the pineapple, mango, or avocado for other fruits like peaches or kiwi for a unique twist.
Grain Alternatives: Serve with quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of yellow rice for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. However, they may dry out faster, so be careful not to overcook them.

2. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the refrigerator and makes for quick lunches throughout the week.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and store it in the marinade in the fridge for several hours before cooking. You can also cook it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian alternative. The flavors from the marinade will still be delightful!

With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, Zesty Citrus Kissed Chicken with Rice & Beans Bliss is a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy creating and savoring this lively dish!