Three Ingredient Chili

Cook: 3 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A quick, hearty chili featuring tomatoes, corn, and black beans, perfect for a comforting meal that suits busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 (14 1/2 oz.) cans chili-style chunky tomatoes
  • 1 (16 or 17 oz.) can corn kernels, drained
  • 1 (16 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a 2-quart saucepan.
  2. Heat for 3 minutes or until bubbly.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You can substitute the black beans with kidney beans or pinto beans if needed. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the tomatoes before mixing. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different types of canned tomatoes to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Microwave Sweet Potatoes Or Yams for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a side of cornbread or a light salad like Cherry Cherry Salad to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely with a lid, for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Three Ingredient Chili contains roughly 215 calories, with 12g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

215 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.2g 24% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 41.3g 15% DV
Fiber 9.3g 33% DV
Sugar 5.6g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 69.5mg 3% DV
Potassium 997.1mg 21% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 88.5mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 32.2mg 36% DV
Calcium 75mg 6% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 make this chili in advance?

Yes, this three-ingredient chili can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Many find that the flavors deepen and improve after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for those following vegan recipes. All three ingredients are vegan-friendly, ensuring you can enjoy a hearty meal without any animal products.

Can I add more ingredients to this recipe?

Definitely! While this recipe is designed for simplicity, feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition. You could also include spices such as cumin or chili powder for added depth of flavor.

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).

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