Description
Spiced Chicken with Rice and Black-Eyed Peas is a comforting one-pan dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with hearty rice and protein-packed black-eyed peas. The spices infuse the chicken with bold flavors, while the rice and peas offer a satisfying base. Perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional for extra warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked black-eyed peas)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the rice and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using), and stir to combine.
- Stir in the black-eyed peas and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If using brown rice, cook for 25-30 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pan on top of the rice and peas. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Fluff the rice and serve the chicken over the rice. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
For different proteins, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, chicken drumsticks, Adjust cooking time accordingly for bone-in cuts.Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the rice for more nutrition.For a gluten-free option, replace the rice with quinoa.If you prefer more heat, increase cayenne pepper or add jalapeños.For a creamy touch, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 65mg