Rice Chili
A hearty and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, and chili spices served over buttery cooked rice, perfect for comforting weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground meat with chopped small onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add canned diced tomatoes and chili powder to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes.
- Serve the chili mixture over cooked buttered rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or some chopped bell peppers to the mixture. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger meat. To make it vegetarian, replace the meat with black beans or lentils. Using leftover rice will save you time, and you can experiment with different types of rice for varied texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili mixture over buttered rice for a comforting meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It also makes a great filling for burritos or served alongside a bowl of Frito Layered Chili for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chili in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Chili contains roughly 412 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1064mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
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 uncooked rice in this recipe?
It's best to use cooked rice for this recipe to ensure even heating and to avoid undercooked rice. If you only have uncooked rice, you could cook it separately and add it just before serving, but adjust the water content in the chili to avoid a soupy consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili. If you like a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika. For a different twist, serve it with a side of spicy hot sauce to let everyone adjust their heat levels.
What is a good side dish to serve with Rice Chili?
A fresh, crunchy salad or coleslaw complements the richness of the chili nicely. You could also serve it alongside cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a warm loaf of Pistollete Rolls for a satisfying meal.
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).