When the air turns crisp, there’s nothing like a warm, slow-cooked meal to bring comfort and fill the house with enticing aromas. This Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans with Smoky Chicken Tenderloin recipe delivers just that—a hearty, protein-packed meal featuring tender pinto beans and smoky chicken tenderloin, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends.

This dish captures the essence of slow cooking by blending tender beans with smoky, spiced chicken, creating a flavor profile that’s both robust and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful comfort food.

Ingredients that Pack a Punch

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1 pound of dried pinto beans: The heart of the dish, providing creaminess and a slightly nutty flavor when slow-cooked.
Chicken broth: Adds a savory base and richness to the beans. Have extra on hand to keep them tender.
Diced tomatoes with green chile peppers: These add a gentle kick and depth, balancing the smokiness of the chicken.
Chicken tenderloin: Cut into small pieces, it infuses the beans with a smoky, juicy flavor.
Spices and seasonings: Smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder deliver an earthy, smoky taste, essential for a dish like this.
Fresh cilantro and salt: For freshness and seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soak the Beans: Start by soaking 1 pound of dried pinto beans overnight in a large pot. Cover them with water, allowing 2-3 inches above the beans. Soaking not only softens the beans but also reduces cooking time and aids in digestibility.
Start Cooking: After soaking, drain the beans and return them to the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the beans generously. Then, add the diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, chicken tenderloin, chopped onion, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the beans on low for about 3 hours, checking them occasionally and adding more broth as needed to keep the beans submerged and tender.
Add Freshness: Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste. Continue simmering for about an hour more until the beans reach your desired tenderness.

This slow-simmering process allows each ingredient to meld beautifully, bringing out a deep, smoky flavor in every bite. The spices complement the beans and chicken perfectly, making it a balanced meal that’s low-maintenance but packed with satisfaction.

Tips for the Perfect Slow-Cooked Meal

Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: If you’re a fan of extra heat, add a dash of chili powder or chopped jalapeños.
Experiment with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, cornbread, or a simple salad.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans with Smoky Chicken Tenderloin is a comforting dish that’s also versatile, nutritious, and delicious. Each spoonful has a delightful combination of creamy beans, tender chicken, and bold spices, making it a go-to for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying.

Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans with Smoky Chicken Tenderloin

Author: Alice

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Description

Enjoy a comforting and hearty dish that features tender pinto beans simmered with smoky flavors, perfect for any meal. This recipe brings warmth and spice with tender chicken and aromatic seasonings.

Ingredients

– 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth, 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 smoked paprika, 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 in a large pot and cover with enough water to submerge beans by 2 to 3 inches. Allow beans to soak overnight.
2. Drain soaked beans, return to the pot, and pour in chicken broth to cover the beans; add diced tomatoes, chicken tenderloin, onion, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
3. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 3 hours. Check the beans occasionally, adding more broth as needed to keep them moist.
4. Stir in cilantro and season with salt. Continue simmering until beans are tender, about 1 more hour.

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