Easy Chile and Cheese Rice
Transform your side dish game with this Easy Chile and Cheese Rice, a comforting and flavorful recipe that's ready in just 30 minutes! Fluffy, tender white rice meets the irresistible kick of diced green chiles and the creamy indulgence of melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses. Enhanced with a hint of garlic and black pepper, this dish strikes the perfect balance of spice and richness. Whether served alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or enjoyed as a standalone comfort food, this cheesy rice is a crowd-pleaser that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Top it off with fresh cilantro for a vibrant, herby finish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout addition to your next Mexican-inspired meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 4-ounce can canned diced green chiles
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil.
Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover with a lid. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the canned diced green chiles (including their liquid), garlic powder, and black pepper.
Gradually mix in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
Transfer the rice to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if using.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
329 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.8 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.8 g | 74% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 71 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 771 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 16.9 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| Protein | 15.3 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 426 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 63 mg | 1% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
