Ingredients:

  • 1.25 lbs (565g) Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Neutral oil (Avocado or Grapeseed)
  • 1 medium (150g) Red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 large (75g) Yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (185g) Long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) Black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (150g) Frozen or canned sweet corn
  • 1.75 cups (415ml) Low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp (8g) Chili powder
  • 1 tsp (2g) Ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) Smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Sea salt
  • 1 cup (115g) Shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until it shimmers and wisps of smoke appear.
  2. Add the 1.25 lbs of chicken pieces in a single layer. Note: Don't crowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of sear.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes until a golden brown crust forms, then flip and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the 1/2 chopped onion and 1 diced red pepper.
  5. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the pepper edges soften.
  6. Stir in the 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp sea salt. Note: Toasting the spices for 30 seconds releases the essential oils.
  7. Add the 1 cup of dry rice to the pan.
  8. Stir constantly for 2 minutes until the rice looks opaque and smells slightly nutty.
  9. Pour in 1.75 cups chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the browned chicken bits.
  10. Add the black beans and corn, then return the chicken to the pan.
  11. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover with a tight lid.
  12. Simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
  13. Remove from heat and sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar over the top.
  14. Replace the lid for 2 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.
  15. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to incorporate the cheese and serve immediately.