A simple yet effective method and apparatus control the temperature within a fluidized bed reactor within a desired range (e.g. about 800.degree.-950.degree. C.). Particulate solids in the off-gases from the combustion chamber of the reactor are separated out, and pass through one or more of a plurality of return conduits back to the combustion chamber. The temperature of the returning solids is controlled by positively cooling them, utilizing heat exchangers, within one or more of the conduits, and by controlling which of the conduits the solids flow through. Valves at the top of the conduits can control the flow of solids into the conduits. Alternatively U-shaped passageways at the bottom of the conduits between them and the combustion chamber can have fluidizing air injected therein, the injected air controlling the flow of solids out of the conduits into the combustion chamber.