Rice And Green Chili Pilaf
A flavorful rice pilaf with green chilies, onions, and garlic, perfect for those craving a mildly spicy, savory side dish that complements various cuisines.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small heavy saucepan, saute onion in oil over moderately low heat.
- Stir in garlic, chilies, and rice, stirring occasionally, until rice is translucent, about 1 minute.
- Add broth, salt, and pepper to taste and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Use a fork to fluff pilaf and add scallion if using.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a mixture of chicken broth and vegetable broth. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for hot green chilies instead of mild. To save time, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice, and adjust the broth accordingly. This pilaf can also be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas for a heartier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pilaf as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or as a base for a protein, such as shrimp or chicken. It pairs beautifully with dishes like New Orleans Wine Sauced Chicken or can be enjoyed on its own with a fresh salad. Garnish with additional sliced scallions for a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pilaf and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Green Chili Pilaf contains roughly 278 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more broth. Typically, brown rice needs about 40-45 minutes to cook. Adjust the liquid quantity accordingly, as brown rice absorbs more moisture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat. You can also add more vegetables or legumes to enhance the dish's protein content while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, use hot green chilies instead of mild ones, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).