If you are craving a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and fills the whole house with mouthwatering aromas, the Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe is your new go-to comfort food. This one-pan wonder blends savory ground beef, tender rice, vibrant tomatoes, and beans with warming spices, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe delivers satisfying Tex-Mex flair with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward ingredients is all it takes to whip up this vibrant dish. Each one adds its own special note, from the rich, juicy beef to the earthy beans and the spicy chili powder that wakes every bite up beautifully.
- Olive oil: For a light sauté base that brings richness without overpowering.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and satisfying protein to make the meal filling.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch once cooked down.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with mouthwatering aroma and depth.
- Diced tomatoes (undrained): Bring juicy freshness and a touch of tanginess.
- Kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Add soft texture and wholesome, fiber-rich goodness.
- Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and creates a slightly saucy consistency.
- Frozen corn: Pops of sweet yellow kernels for color and contrast.
- Chili powder: The star spice delivering warmth and a bit of bold kick.
- Cumin: Adds earthy, smoky undertones that complement the chili.
- Paprika: Brings mild sweetness with a hint of smokiness.
- Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers a gentle heat to round out the spices.
- Uncooked white rice: Absorbs all the rich flavors while staying tender and fluffy.
- Beef broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses savory notes deep into the rice.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top to create a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional): Provide fresh, herbal color and brightness when garnished.
How to Make Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until fully browned and juicy. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease so the dish isn’t too heavy. Toss in the diced onion next and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Finish this step by stirring in the minced garlic, letting it cook for just a minute to release its fragrant magic.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Now it’s time to add the heart of the Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe’s flavor. Into the skillet, pour the undrained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and frozen corn. Sprinkle over the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so these ingredients meld into a rich, colorful mixture that hints at the bold taste to come.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth, Then Simmer
Next, stir in the uncooked white rice along with the beef broth. Bring the entire skillet up to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is perfectly tender. This step allows all the flavors to get cozy together, making sure every grain of rice is infused with that delicious chili goodness.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Garnish
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into an irresistibly creamy topping. Finally, add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes, if you like.
How to Serve Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can truly elevate this skillet meal. Aside from the cheddar cheese and green onions or cilantro, consider dolloping sour cream or slicing up some ripe avocado for creamy contrast. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can add a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, light sides like a crisp green salad or a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips work beautifully. You could also serve it with warm flour tortillas to scoop up every last flavorful bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Present the Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe straight from the skillet for a casual, rustic vibe that invites sharing. Alternatively, plate individual servings topped with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of diced jalapeños to amp up the heat for spice lovers. Using colorful bowls or adding a few lime wedges on the side can make the meal feel special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, which is perfect for planning ahead. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry to bring back its creamy texture and prevent it from sticking.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe, absorbing all the spices just as well as beef does.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Yes, swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious meatless option.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but expect a longer cooking time—about 10 to 15 minutes extra—and you may need to add a little more broth to ensure the rice cooks through fully.
How spicy is this Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe?
The base recipe has a gentle warmth from chili powder and paprika, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep the dish flavorful. Just avoid using water alone, as the broth adds important richness.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe is a true weeknight hero, blending simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how delicious and satisfying this skillet meal can be for your family or friends.
Print
Chili Rice Skillet Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Chili Rice Skillet Meal that combines ground beef, spices, vegetables, and rice in one pan for an easy Tex-Mex inspired dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is cooked entirely on the stovetop and topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh garnishes.
Ingredients
Skillet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, tomato sauce, frozen corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook Rice: Add the uncooked white rice and beef broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Melt Cheese: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover again for 2–3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a wholesome and comforting main course.
Notes
- For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during the step when adding vegetables and spices.
- Ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
- To make this recipe with brown rice, increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes and add extra broth as needed to ensure rice cooks thoroughly.
