Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but pairing it with some complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience to new heights. Consider adding a fresh salad, like a zesty cucumber and tomato salad, to balance the richness of the main dish.
You could also serve it alongside some warm plantains or tostones, which add a sweet and crispy texture. For something creamy, a dollop of mashed avocado or guacamole works wonders. And don’t forget, a slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Today, I’m super excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken. This dish is not only a staple in Dominican households but also a globally-loved comfort food that’s packed with flavor and soul.
Combining tender chicken, well-seasoned rice, and hearty beans, it’s a complete meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this traditional dish.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Best Rainbows shoyu chicken recipe
- How to make Cheesecake Factory Pasta Napoletana
- Copycat Lipton Mushroom Onion Soup Mix Recipe
What is Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken?
Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken, or “La Bandera Dominicana,” is a quintessential dish that represents the vibrant culture and rich culinary heritage of the Dominican Republic. It typically includes marinated chicken, fluffy rice, and seasoned beans, all cooked to perfection. These components are mixed with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Why You’ll Love This Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken. First off, the flavor explosion in every bite will leave you craving more. The tender and juicy marinated chicken pairs perfectly with the seasoned rice and beans, making each mouthful a delight.
Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a friendly get-together, or a potluck, it fits the bill. Nutritionally, it’s a well-balanced meal, offering protein, carbs, and essential vitamins and minerals. Finally, it’s quite economical and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or budget-friendly meals.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken
Here’s a quick overview of what you need to get started. Check your pantry and fridge; you might already have most of these!
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 10 pieces (skin removed except for wings and drummettes)
- 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice
- 1/4 cup of water (for adding to marinade)
- 3 cups of water (for the second cooking phase)
- 2 1/2 cups of long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of finely minced garlic
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of tomato sauce or 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1/3 cup of sliced green olives
- 4 rings of yellow onion
- 1 packet of chicken bouillon
- 4 sprigs of fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of capers
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Directions
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Grab your apron and get ready for a culinary adventure. Here’s how you make this fabulous dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First off, place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Pour in the lemon or lime juice and 1/4 cup of water. Toss well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the citrusy goodness, tenderizing it while infusing it with flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them on both sides until they turn golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, stir in the tomato sauce or tomato paste, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Liquid
Pour in the 3 cups of water, soy sauce, chicken bouillon, and capers. Stir well to combine. Add the long-grain rice and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
After 10 minutes, place the seared chicken pieces back into the pot. Make sure each piece is partially submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Finally, stir in the green olives, chopped parsley, and fresh cilantro. Let it sit off the heat for a few minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Marination is Key: Don’t skimp on the marination time. It makes a huge difference in the taste and texture of the chicken.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will elevate the flavors like nothing else.
- Rice Choice Matters: Always opt for long-grain rice for this dish to achieve the perfect texture.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you prefer more heat, add a touch of cayenne pepper.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pot to ensure the rice doesn’t overcook. You want fluffy, not mushy, rice.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any leftover Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Avocado: A side of sliced fresh avocado or a spoonful of guacamole adds a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
- Plantains: Fried or baked plantains provide a nice sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Salad: A simple greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance.
- Tostones: Crispy fried green plantains are a fantastic accompaniment.
- Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken?
Let’s talk substitutions in case you need to tweak the recipe based on availability or dietary restrictions.
- Turkey: If you’re out of chicken or prefer a different protein, turkey works wonderfully in this recipe.
- Quinoa: Swap the rice for quinoa for a higher protein and fiber content.
- Pinto Beans: Instead of using black or red beans, pinto beans can be a delicious alternative.
- Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the chicken altogether.
- Red Bell Peppers: Add them for extra color and a sweet, crunchy element.
Dominican rice and beans with chicken
Equipment
- Bowl
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut into 10 pieces (skin removed except for wings and drummettes)
- 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice
- 1/4 cup of water for adding to marinade
- 3 cups of water for the second cooking phase
- 2 1/2 cups of long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of finely minced garlic
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of tomato sauce or 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1/3 cup of sliced green olives
- 4 rings of yellow onion
- 1 packet of chicken bouillon
- 4 sprigs of fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of capers
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- First off, place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Pour in the lemon or lime juice and 1/4 cup of water. Toss well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the citrusy goodness, tenderizing it while infusing it with flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them on both sides until they turn golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Flavor Base
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, stir in the tomato sauce or tomato paste, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Liquid
- Pour in the 3 cups of water, soy sauce, chicken bouillon, and capers. Stir well to combine. Add the long-grain rice and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
- After 10 minutes, place the seared chicken pieces back into the pot. Make sure each piece is partially submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
- Finally, stir in the green olives, chopped parsley, and fresh cilantro. Let it sit off the heat for a few minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Marination is Key: Don’t skimp on the marination time. It makes a huge difference in the taste and texture of the chicken.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will elevate the flavors like nothing else.
- Rice Choice Matters: Always opt for long-grain rice for this dish to achieve the perfect texture.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you prefer more heat, add a touch of cayenne pepper.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pot to ensure the rice doesn’t overcook. You want fluffy, not mushy, rice.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can. However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly.
2. Is it necessary to remove the chicken skin?
While the recipe suggests removing the skin, you can keep it on if you prefer. Just be aware that it will add more fat to the dish.
3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Certainly! Sear the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 5-6 hours.
4. What kind of beans should I use?
Traditionally, red beans or black beans are used, but you can experiment with other types like pinto or kidney beans.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a diced jalapeño or some cayenne pepper to the dish for an extra kick.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Dominican Rice and Beans with Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. From the flavorful marinated chicken to the aromatic, seasoned rice and beans, every bite tells a story of rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the flavors transport you to the vibrant, sunny island of the Dominican Republic.
Bon appétit!
The key to this dish lies in the blend of spices and the care taken at each step. Trust me, once you’ve made this dish, it will become a regular in your meal rotation.
