Chili & Rice from Zippy's features savory ground beef chili simmered with beans and spices, served over fluffy white rice, topped with melted cheddar cheese and diced onions, offering a hearty and comforting meal with robust flavors.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rice cooker or saucepan with lid
- Cheese grater
- Serving spoon
- Bowls or serving plates
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) pinto beans
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) diced tomatoes
- 1 small can (6 oz/170g) tomato paste
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion (for topping)
- Water or beef broth (as needed)
- Vegetable oil or cooking oil
Use fresh onions for both the chili base and the topping to maintain a crisp texture and enhance flavor contrast. Opt for canned beans and diced tomatoes with no added salt to better control the seasoning. Using beef broth instead of water when cooking the chili adds depth and richness to the overall taste. Your choice of shredded cheddar cheese should be sharp to complement the robustness of the chili spices. Chili & Rice from Zippy's copycat menu delivers a balanced, hearty meal combining savory ground beef chili, fluffy white rice, and a perfect cheese topping.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Dice onions and mince garlic.
- Rinse and drain canned beans.
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add tomato paste and stir to combine.
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans.
- Pour in water or beef broth as needed for desired consistency.
- Stir well and bring mixture to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, rinse rice under cold water.
- Cook rice in rice cooker or saucepan with lid according to package instructions.
- Grate cheddar cheese and finely dice additional onion for topping.
- Taste chili and adjust seasoning if needed.
- To serve, scoop rice into bowls or plates.
- Ladle chili over rice.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top with diced onions and serve immediately.
Substitution
Chili & Rice from Zippy's copycat menu provides a savory and satisfying meal with ground beef chili mixed with beans, spices, and diced tomatoes served over fluffy rice with melted cheddar and diced onions on top. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner protein option. If kosher or dietary restrictions apply, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth during cooking. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add fresh chopped jalapenos to the chili mixture. When preparing the rice, ensure it remains fluffy by using the correct water-to-rice ratio recommended for your rice cooker or saucepan.
Tips
Ensure you rinse the canned beans and rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and sodium, improving texture and flavor. When browning ground beef, drain excess fat to prevent a greasy chili and enhance healthiness. Simmer chili on low heat with the lid partially covered to allow flavors to meld without drying out. Your cheddar cheese will melt best if sprinkled immediately over hot chili just before serving, maintaining a creamy and rich topping.
Nutritions
Chili & Rice from Zippy's provides a balanced mix of macronutrients with ground beef offering high-quality protein, while kidney and pinto beans contribute fiber, plant-based protein, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. The dish contains complex carbohydrates from long-grain white rice that fuel your energy, and the addition of cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D. Spices such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika supply antioxidants and may support metabolism, enhancing the overall nutritional profile. This hearty meal supports muscle repair and digestive health, making it a satisfying option for your dietary needs.
Storage
Store leftover chili and rice separately in airtight containers to maintain texture and flavor. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking; consume within 3-4 days to ensure safety and freshness. You can reheat chili on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally, and warm rice gently with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat to reduce fat content or add variety. Using black beans instead of kidney or pinto beans offers a slightly different texture and flavor profile. For extra depth, substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth while simmering the chili. Consider cooking the rice with a pinch of turmeric or saffron to infuse subtle color and aroma into your base layer.
Allergies
This Chili & Rice from Zippy's contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential sensitivity from nightshade vegetables including tomatoes and chili powder. Kidney beans and pinto beans may cause digestive issues or allergic reactions in some individuals with legume allergies. You should be cautious if you have allergies to beef, dairy, or certain spices included in the chili seasoning blend.
Why this recipe?
Chili & Rice from Zippy's stands out for its perfect balance of rich, savory chili and fluffy, well-seasoned rice that creates a satisfying, comforting meal. The dish uses a unique blend of spices and high-quality ingredients, delivering bold flavors that appeal to both casual diners and food enthusiasts. Making a copycat at home allows You to customize the spice level and ingredient freshness, ensuring a personalized dining experience. Its reputation for consistent taste and satisfying portions makes it a worthy recipe to recreate.