Chicken chili is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Packed with tender shredded chicken, beans, and flavorful spices, this chili is a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this chicken chili recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 1 can chicken broth
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ½ cup white onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, with liquid reserved
- 1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, with liquid reserved
- ½ cup red salsa
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 can green chiles, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Shred Chicken: If not already shredded, shred the rotisserie chicken using a fork or your hands. Discard any bones or skin.
- Chop Onion: Finely chop the white onion.
Step 2: Cook the Chili
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Chicken and Beans: Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, pinto beans (with reserved liquid), kidney beans (with reserved liquid), red salsa, and diced green chiles to the pot.
- Season: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring that all the ingredients are well combined.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the chili to a simmer. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sour cream, or tortilla strips.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Toppings: Customize your chicken chili with a variety of toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Beans: Feel free to use different types of beans or a combination of beans, such as black beans, cannellini beans, or navy beans, depending on your preference.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of heat in the chili by adding more or less chili powder, diced green chiles, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Vegetables: Enhance the flavor and nutrition of the chili by adding diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or diced tomatoes.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors have melded together and the chili is hot and bubbly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, chicken chili freezes well. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken? A: Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, such as grilled chicken breast or roasted chicken, works perfectly in this recipe. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it to the chili as directed.
Q: How can I make this chili vegetarian? A: To make a vegetarian version of this chili, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra beans or vegetables for added protein and texture.
Q: What can I serve with chicken chili? A: Chicken chili pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and texture.
Chicken chili is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this flavorful chili is sure to be a hit. With its tender chicken, hearty beans, and aromatic spices, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whip up a batch of this delicious chicken chili today and savor the warm and comforting flavors of home.
