cheesy bbq chicken smoky beans (Printable)

Savory chicken, creamy cheese, and smoky beans blend for a warming, crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken and Marinade

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Pinto Beans

06 - 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Cheese and Garnish

10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
02 - In a bowl, coat the chicken breasts with barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly covered.
03 - Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
04 - Combine pinto beans, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until beans are evenly coated.
05 - Spoon the smoky pinto bean mixture around and over the chicken in the baking dish.
06 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and beans.
07 - Transfer dish to oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbling.
08 - Remove from oven. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple everyday ingredients you probably have on hand
  • Fills hungry bellies with tons of flavor and melty cheese
  • All in one pan for simple prep and minimal cleanup
  • Easy to double for parties or meal prep
02 -
  • Loaded with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied
  • Excellent as leftovers reheated for lunch or next-day dinner
  • Perfect for customizing with more veggies or a different bean
03 -
  • If you like crispy cheese edges push just a little of the cheddar up the sides of the pan before baking
  • Do not skimp on resting time before serving it really does make scooping and plating neater
  • Taste the BBQ sauce before adding and adjust with a pinch of brown sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar if it is too sharp or too sweet
  • Keep a squeeze of fresh lemon ready a sprinkle just before serving brightens up all the smoky savoriness
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