When the craving for comfort food with a kick hits, look no further than Mexican-Spiced Pinto Beans with Chicken Tenderloin. This dish brings together the best of Mexican flavors: tender pinto beans simmered with succulent chicken and an aromatic blend of spices that promise to awaken your taste buds and warm your soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this one-pot meal offers both simplicity and depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-Packed: Infused with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, every bite bursts with zesty and savory goodness.
Nutritious: Pinto beans are not only tasty but also packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum enjoyment. Everything comes together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili powder to your liking—make it as mild or spicy as you prefer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed
4 cups water, or as needed
2 10-ounce cans diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick)
1 pound chicken tenderloin, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder, or to taste
1 tablespoon ground cumin, or to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (for freshness and garnish)
Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beans: Place the rinsed pinto beans into a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 2 to 3 inches. Let them soak overnight to ensure they cook evenly and soften properly.
Simmer the Mixture: Drain the soaked beans and return them to the pot. Pour in fresh water to cover the beans. Add the diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, chicken tenderloin pieces, chopped onion, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
Cook Low and Slow: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 3 hours. Stir occasionally, and if the beans begin to dry out, add more water as needed.
Finishing Touches: About an hour before the dish is ready, stir in the chopped cilantro and salt to taste. Let the flavors meld together as the beans continue to simmer until tender.

Tips for the Perfect Dish

Bean Prep: Soaking the beans overnight is essential for shortening cooking time and ensuring they’re tender.
Layered Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, you can sauté the onion and chicken tenderloin in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with warm tortillas, rice, or a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra indulgent touch.

Final Thoughts

Mexican-Spiced Pinto Beans with Chicken Tenderloin is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and offers a wholesome, satisfying bite. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will bring a burst of flavor and comfort to your table. So grab your ingredients, start simmering, and let the vibrant taste of Mexican cuisine take center stage.

Mexican-Spiced Pinto Beans with Chicken Tenderloin

Author: Alice

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with this hearty pinto bean dish, complemented by succulent chicken tenderloin and zesty spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder will warm your heart and your taste buds.

Ingredients

– 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed
– 4 cups water, or as needed
– 2 10-ounce cans diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
– 1 pound chicken tenderloin, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1 yellow onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chili powder, or to taste
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin, or to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
– 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Place pinto beans into a large pot and pour in enough water to cover them by 2 to 3 inches. Let the beans soak overnight.
2. Drain the beans, return them to the pot, and pour in fresh water to cover. Add tomatoes, chicken tenderloin, onion, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 3 hours. Check the beans occasionally and add more water if needed.
4. Stir cilantro and salt into the beans and let simmer until the beans are soft, about 1 more hour.

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