Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both quick to prepare and easy on the wallet? Look no further than this recipe for Easy Mexican Rice & Beans with Taco Bites! This vibrant dish combines the comforting flavors of perfectly seasoned rice and beans with the fun and customizable element of mini taco bites, creating a complete and flavorful dinner experience. It's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a fantastic balance of taste and convenience.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this recipe simplifies classic Mexican flavors into a simple, achievable meal. We've streamlined the process to minimize effort without sacrificing deliciousness. Ready to create this flavorful feast? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and bring this easy Mexican Rice & Beans with Taco Bites recipe to life!
Tools Needed
- Oven
- Immersion Blender (optional)
- Microwave
Ingredients
- Chicken and Cheese Taco Bites
- Thick Salsa
- Liquidy Salsa: 2 cups
- Olive Oil
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Pinto Beans (rinsed and drained): 2 cans
- Sour Cream
- Easy Mexican Rice and Beans
- Frozen Rice and Bean Mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Taco Bites and Salsa
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken and cheese taco bites in the oven and bake for 18 minutes.
- Combine liquidy salsa, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. (Note: The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of salsa, but the creator uses 2 cups of a more liquid salsa.)
- Add the pinto beans to the salsa mixture and mix well.
- Cook the salsa and bean mixture for 15 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce.
Step 2. Cook Rice and Beans and Prepare Dip
- Mix sour cream and thick salsa in a bowl.
- While the taco bites and salsa mixture are cooking, prepare the rice and beans. Heat the Easy Mexican Rice and Beans according to package directions. Add the frozen rice and bean mix and stir in.
Step 3. Bake Taco Bites
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken and cheese taco bites in the oven and bake for 18 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the baked taco bites with the cooked rice and beans and the sour cream dip.
Read more: Juicy Birria Quesa Tacos Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using an immersion blender can thicken the liquidy salsa if desired.
- Don't use the same spoon for both the sour cream and the salsa to avoid contamination.
- Feel free to add other ingredients, such as cheese, to the rice and beans mixture.
- This recipe is a great way to use up sale items and make inexpensive meals.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Both the rice and beans can be made a day in advance and reheated. The taco bites are best assembled just before serving.
2. What kind of beans should I use?
Any kind of canned bean works well, such as pinto, black, or kidney beans. Just be sure to rinse them before using.
3. Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out your favorite taco toppings for the bites. Different cheeses, salsas, and veggies all work great.
This Easy Mexican Rice & Beans with Taco Bites recipe proves that a delicious and satisfying dinner doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation, making this a go-to meal for any night of the week. Now get cooking and savor every bite!