Hearty Chicken Chili Recipe
Description:
This Hearty Chicken Chili is a flavorful, protein-packed alternative to traditional beef chili. It’s made with lean chicken, beans, vegetables, and a blend of bold spices. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or game day. It’s also gluten-free and can be made dairy-free.
Time Required:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: ~50–55 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
Protein & Beans:
1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans (optional), rinsed and drained
Vegetables:
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained (or 1 cup frozen)
Tomatoes & Liquid:
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Spices:
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings (optional):
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Chopped cilantro
Avocado
Lime wedges
Tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Cook Chicken:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook 5–6 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside to cool slightly. Shred with forks.
2. Sauté Veggies:
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed.
Add onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add Spices & Tomatoes:
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne.
Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, corn, and all beans.
Return shredded chicken to the pot.
4. Simmer:
Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover partially, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally.
5. Taste & Adjust:
Add more salt, pepper, or spices to taste.
6. Serve:
Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, or your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~370 kcal
Protein ~35g
Fat ~10g
Carbohydrates ~35g
Fiber ~10g
Sugars ~7g
Sodium ~600mg
Cholesterol ~65mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on toppings and portion size.
FAQs – Chicken Chili
Q1: Can I use ground chicken instead?
A: Yes! Ground chicken is a great alternative. Brown it before adding vegetables.
Q2: How do I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Sauté onions, garlic, and spices. Add everything to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Shred the chicken at the end.
Q3: Can I freeze chicken chili?
A: Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Let cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Just skip dairy-based toppings like cheese and sour cream. Use avocado or coconut yogurt if needed.
Q5: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add more cayenne pepper, use hot chili powder, or include additional jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Q6: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes, omit the chicken and add extra beans or use tofu/plant-based meat alternatives.
Pro Tips:
Add a squeeze of lime at the end to brighten flavor.
For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end.
Make a big batch—this chili tastes evenhe next day!