Description
This Easy Chili Beans and Rice Recipe is a hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining tender chili beans, black or kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with aromatic spices, this dish is served over fluffy cooked rice and can be customized with optional toppings like green onions or shredded cheese. It’s vegetarian-friendly when using vegetarian chili beans and is simple to prepare on the stovetop in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans in sauce, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serving
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Chopped green onions or shredded cheese (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a medium skillet or saucepan, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat to create the ideal base for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced small onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, building depth of flavor.
- Add garlic: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine beans and tomatoes: Pour in the undrained 15-ounce can of chili beans, drained and rinsed 15-ounce can of black or kidney beans, and the 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes with juices.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste over the bean and tomato mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chili thickens slightly and is heated through, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve: Spoon the chili beans mixture over 2 cups of warm cooked white or brown rice. Garnish optionally with chopped green onions or shredded cheese to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For added protein and a non-vegetarian option, stir in cooked ground beef or turkey before simmering.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated for quick and convenient lunches or dinners.
- Adjust the level of chili powder to make the dish as mild or spicy as preferred.
- Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
