Cache & Cook

Quick recipes with chicken and beans

Got chicken and beans and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.

Common questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, canned beans work great and save time—use about 1.5 cans (drained and rinsed) for every 1 cup of dried beans called for. Just add them near the end of cooking so they don't break down.
How do I make chicken and beans recipes cheaper?
Buy chicken thighs or leg quarters instead of breasts (they're more flavorful too), use dried beans you cook yourself, and buy beans and grains in bulk.
What sides pair well with chicken and beans?
Serve with rice, couscous, or cornbread to stretch the dish, or pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
How long can I store leftover chicken and beans?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months—these dishes actually taste better as leftovers as the flavors meld together.
Can I substitute different types of beans in the same recipe?
Absolutely—black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas are pretty interchangeable, though cooking times vary slightly, so taste as you go.