This Chicken Chili is a warm and comforting dish, full of tender chicken, beans, and colorful veggies. It packs a flavorful punch without being too spicy!
Honestly, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I love to top it with some cheese and avocado for an extra treat. It’s perfect for chilly nights or any day that needs a bit more warmth. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing vegetables, but you can swap it for canola or avocado oil. I like using avocado oil for its high smoke point and mild flavor.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless are ideal, but thighs work well too for a richer flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut if you’re in a hurry.
Beans: Black and kidney beans add texture and protein. If you’re avoiding beans, consider adding more veggies or switching to lentils for a different twist.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key here. You can use taco seasoning if you want a more complex flavor without needing multiple spices!
Jalapeño: If heat isn’t your thing, leave this out or substitute with a milder pepper like a bell pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken can be tricky, but here’s a solid method. After cooking the chicken, it’s best to let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This makes it easier to handle. Use two forks for shredding—pull apart the chicken in opposite directions. It should come apart easily if cooked well! Don’t overthink it if some pieces are bigger than others; they still taste great!
- Cook the chicken thoroughly until it’s no longer pink inside.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, so it cools down slightly.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart until it’s shredded to your liking.
These tips will help ensure your Chicken Chili is a hearty, delicious bowl that everyone will love!
Delicious Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 40-50 minutes to cook, bringing you a total of around 1 hour. It’s a fantastic choice for meal prep or sharing with family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if you’re using it). Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften.
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that lovely aroma. This is the moment when your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
3. Add Chicken and Other Ingredients:
Next, place the chicken breasts in the pot. Add the diced tomatoes along with their juice, black beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors!
4. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and tender during this time.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. When you’ve finished shredding, return the chicken to the pot and stir everything well. Let it simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Everybody’s taste can be a little different, so make it yours!
7. Serve with Toppings:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious Chicken Chili! Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch!
8. Enjoy!
Take a moment to admire your hard work before diving in. This Chicken Chili is not only hearty and flavorful but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, they may need an additional 10-15 minutes of simmering.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might also want to add in some lentils or more beans for added protein and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Chili?
This chili is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with tortilla chips, over rice, or alongside cornbread for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast!
