Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe

This Chili Rice Skillet Meal is a quick, easy, and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner! Imagine tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables and beans, all simmered together in a rich and savory chili sauce. This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still crave a comforting and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a lifesaver on busy days when you don’t have a lot of time to cook. It’s ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep and just one pan to clean.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of ground beef, chili spices, beans, and rice creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, cheese, or avocado. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef: The base of the flavorful filling. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Onion: Chopped and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Chili powder: Adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season the dish to perfection.
• Onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor.
• Cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Chili beans: Adds protein, fiber, and a hearty texture.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and freshness.
• Beef broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the rice.
• Tomato sauce: Adds richness and a deeper tomato flavor.
• Rice: Use long-grain white rice for a fluffy and absorbent base.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy and gooey topping.
• Optional toppings: Jalapeños, sour cream, and hot sauce for added flavor and spice.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Chili Rice Skillet Meal

Step 1: Rinse the Rice and Brown the Beef

Rinse one cup of long-grain white rice with water and set aside. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and cumin. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Simmer the Chili

Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chili beans (undrained), beef broth, tomato sauce, and rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili. You can either place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese or cover the skillet and let it sit on the stovetop until the cheese melts. Top with jalapeños, sour cream, and hot sauce, if desired, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the dish.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skillet along with the onions, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or chopped spinach.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each serving.

How to Serve

This Chili Rice Skillet Meal is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla chips, for people to customize their bowls.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the flavors of the chili beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Rice Skillet Meal is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can! Brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous would be delicious substitutes for white rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded.

This Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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