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Chili Beans and Rice

Chili Beans and Rice
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This easy Chili Beans and Rice recipe is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal combining fluffy long-grain white rice, hearty kidney beans, aromatic spices, and a touch of chili heat. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying lunches, offering a nutritious, budget-friendly, and versatile comfort food option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced green onions

Optional Variations

  • Chopped jalapeños or dash of cayenne pepper for spiciness
  • Extra veggies like bell peppers or corn (for vegetarian version)
  • Brown ground beef or turkey (for meat lovers variant)
  • Brown rice or quinoa (for whole grain twist)
  • Smoked paprika and chipotle peppers (for Southwestern style)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant to build a savory flavor base.
  2. Add the Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in chili powder and cumin, stirring for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies, then let simmer to blend the flavors.
  3. Mix in Beans and Broth: Add drained and rinsed kidney beans to the skillet. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and stir. Allow the mixture to bubble and thicken for several minutes.
  4. Cook the Rice Separately: Meanwhile, cook long-grain white rice in a separate pot or rice cooker following package instructions until fluffy.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Once rice is cooked, either fold it into the chili beans mixture or serve beans spooned over rice. Simmer combined dish for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors fully.

Notes

  • Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve texture.
  • Toast spices briefly in oil to intensify flavor.
  • Cook rice separately to achieve perfect texture without overcooking.
  • Simmer gently to avoid burning and allow flavors to blend.
  • Adjust heat level by adding more chili powder or hot sauce as preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chili Beans and Rice, easy chili recipe, quick dinner, budget-friendly meal, vegetarian chili, gluten-free chili, comfort food, healthy chili

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/chili-beans-and-rice/