The moment you take a whiff of One Pot Chili with Rice, your senses awaken, and your taste buds start doing a happy dance. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with vibrant spices, hearty beans, and tender rice, all mingling together in a symphony of flavors that could make even the grumpiest cat purr. creamy potato soup This dish is more than just food; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening and the perfect companion for movie marathons or cozy family dinners.
Remember that time when you had to cook dinner but wanted to do absolutely anything else? Enter One Pot Chili with Rice, the superhero of weeknight meals. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it transforms busy nights into culinary adventures. creamy pumpkin hummus Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or simply treating yourself after a long day, expect smiles all around as you serve up this deliciousness. pumpkin roll bars.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One Pot Chili with Rice is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Its robust flavor profile will satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- The colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any table setting
- Plus, it’s highly versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients!
I still remember the first time I made this chili; my friends couldn’t believe I whipped it up in just one pot!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat for a healthier option while keeping that rich flavor intact.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with green chilies for added heat and tanginess.
- Kidney Beans: Rinse well before adding to enhance texture and flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Select vibrant colors like red and yellow for sweetness and visual appeal. For more inspiration, check out this stuffed pepper casserole recipe.
- Onion: A yellow onion works best; it adds sweetness as it caramelizes.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal; they offer incredible aroma and depth of flavor. garlic herb mashed potatoes.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice cooks perfectly in this dish and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Chili Powder: Use your favorite blend for that signature chili kick—don’t hold back!
- Cumin: This spice adds an earthy warmth that complements the chili perfectly.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing veggies until they’re delightfully soft and fragrant.
- Vegetable Broth or Water: For cooking the rice; broth enhances flavor significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Meat: Toss in ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen and draw everyone closer.
Mix in Vegetables and Spices: Add chopped bell peppers along with chili powder and cumin. Stir everything together until combined—let those flavors mingle for about 2 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Beans : Pour in canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and rinsed kidney beans. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients; this mixture should be bursting with color.
Add Rice and Broth : Sprinkle in uncooked rice followed by vegetable broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low—cover tightly.
Simmer to Perfection : Allow everything to simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking while inhaling amazing aromas!
Now you have a delicious One Pot Chili with Rice that’s ready to steal the show at your next gathering—or just make you feel like a kitchen rockstar on any given Tuesday! Serve hot topped with cheese or fresh cilantro, if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite! For more inspiration, check out this delicious goulash soup recipe.
You Must Know
- One Pot Chili With Rice is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The comforting aroma fills your kitchen, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s also an ideal recipe to impress friends at gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat first for depth of flavor. Then, add your vegetables and spices before incorporating rice, ensuring everything cooks evenly and absorbs those delicious flavors.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beans or spices based on what you have at home. Adding a splash of lime juice or some diced jalapeños can elevate the dish with extra zest!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover One Pot Chili With Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish for added freshness
- Adjust spice levels based on personal preference for heat; not everyone loves mouth-on-fire chili!
- Always taste as you go to find that perfect balance of flavors
Cooking this One Pot Chili With Rice always reminds me of that unforgettable potluck where my dish mysteriously vanished faster than I could say “seconds.” Friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is it okay to freeze One Pot Chili With Rice?
Absolutely! It freezes well and makes for convenient future meals.
What can I serve with this chili?
Serve it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch!
One Pot Chili with Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes 6 servings 1x
Description
One Pot Chili with Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. This easy-to-make meal combines tender ground meat, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, all simmered in a rich blend of spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this delightful chili is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, its one-pot nature means minimal cleanup—just pure comfort food satisfaction in every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and yellow)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground meat; cook until browned.
- Mix in bell peppers, chili powder, and cumin; stir for about 2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and rinsed kidney beans; mix well.
- Stir in uncooked rice and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg







