If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe. Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili is not just a warming bowl of goodness; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. With ground chicken as a lean and healthy protein source, combined with vibrant vegetables and savory spices, this chili is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a wholesome dish without sacrificing taste.
Why We Love This Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili Recipe
One of the best things about this Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili is how it embraces the principles of clean eating while being packed with flavor. You’ll love that it features whole, nutrient-dense ingredients that nourish your body and satisfy your cravings. Ground chicken, fresh vegetables, and legumes are not only heart-healthy, but they also add texture and substance to the dish. Plus, the blend of spices gives it that delightful warmth without overwhelming your palate. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening at home or hosting friends for dinner, this chili is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients about Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
Let’s dive into the ingredients that will make this chili a standout in your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor and ensuring you enjoy every bite.
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste (roughly 1/4 cup)
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1 tbsp ground chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
How to Make Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili Directions
Creating your own Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili is not only straightforward but also incredibly fulfilling. Here’s how you can whip it up in no time:
- Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil to warm it up.
- Add the pound of ground chicken to the pot. Cook it for approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and turns completely white.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté these ingredients for about 3 minutes, or until they become tender and fragrant.
- Next, it’s time to build up the flavor. Stir in the chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and applesauce. Mixing in applesauce may sound unusual, but it lends a subtle sweetness and moistness to the chili that you’ll love.
- Now for the spices! Add the ground chili powder, cumin, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together well, ensuring all the spices coat the other ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. This will help all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 50 minutes. You’ll want to stir at the 30-minute mark to keep the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasonings as needed to ensure it’s to your liking.
- When you’re ready to serve, dish it out hot and consider garnishing it with fresh cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
How to Serve Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
Serving this Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili can be just as enjoyable as making it. The best part is that you can customize your toppings and pairings according to your liking. Here are a few ideas to elevate your serving:
- Toppings: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor, while Greek yogurt can provide a creamy balance to the spices. You might also consider avocado slices or a sprinkle of cheese if those fit your clean-eating goals.
- Sides: Consider serving your chili with a side of whole-grain cornbread or brown rice. A simple green salad can also provide a refreshing contrast.
- Presentation: Serve the chili in colorful bowls to brighten up your dining table. Enjoy the warmth and aroma as you dish out this delicious meal that’s sure to impress anyone who’s lucky enough to share it with you.
Expert Tips: Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
To make sure you get the most out of your Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Quality Ingredients: When making chili, the quality of your ingredients matters. Choose organic chicken, if possible, and opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness.
- Adjust Spiciness: Depending on your heat preference, feel free to modify the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra zing.
- Taste as You Go: Always keep tasting your chili as it simmers. Adjust seasonings gradually to reach your desired flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This chili keeps well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. The flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge, so consider making a larger batch.
- Add More Veggies: If you enjoy more veggies, feel free to throw in additional ingredients like zucchini or spinach during cooking for added nutrition.
How to Store Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
Storing your Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili is simple and efficient. Make sure to follow these steps to ensure it stays fresh:
- Refrigeration: Transfer any leftover chili into airtight containers promptly. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. The chili will last for about 4 to 5 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze your chili. Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. Your chili can remain good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy some leftovers, reheat it in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also use the microwave; just make sure to cover it slightly to avoid splatters.
Variation of Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
There are countless ways to tailor this Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili to make it your very own. Consider trying out these delicious variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground chicken for lentils or chickpeas. Increase the simmer time to allow these legumes to soften.
- Different Beans: Instead of black beans, experiment with pinto beans or kidney beans. Each variety brings a different taste and texture.
- Spicy Version: For those who adore intense heat, add chopped jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper. You could even use spicy diced tomatoes for an additional kick.
- Sweet Chili: Incorporate chopped sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a naturally sweet component that marries beautifully with the savory spices.
- Global Flair: Give your chili a twist by adding curry powder and coconut milk for an exotic flair. This variation leads to a creamy and tantalizing dish.
FAQ about Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili recipe:
Can I make Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili is perfect for meal prep. The flavors develop more over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
What can I serve with Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili?
Consider pairing it with whole-grain bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for balance and variety.
Is Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili spicy?
The spiciness of the chili primarily comes from the cayenne pepper. Feel free to adjust this according to your personal preference!
Can I substitute ground chicken with another meat?
Yes! You can use ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer. However, ground chicken is used here for its health benefits.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Yes! It freezes very well. Just make sure it’s cooled and stored in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
Enjoy diving into this world of Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili, making each bowl a personal adventure of flavors and nutrition. Your taste buds and your body will surely thank you!
Clean Eating Ground Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil For cooking
- 1 lb ground chicken Lean protein source
- 1 onion, chopped Adds flavor
- 1 red bell pepper, diced Adds color and sweetness
- 1 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred
- 1 14 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained For added protein and fiber
- 1/2 cup frozen corn For sweetness and texture
- 1 14 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes Enhances flavor
- 1/4 cup tomato paste For thickness
- 1/4 cup applesauce Adds sweetness and moisture
Spices
- 1 tbsp ground chili powder For heat
- 1 tsp cumin Adds earthiness
- 1 tsp oregano Herb flavor
- 1 tsp thyme Herb flavor
- 1 tsp garlic powder For depth
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust according to heat preference
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the ground chicken and cook for approximately 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, black beans, frozen corn, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and applesauce.
- Add the spices: chili powder, cumin, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything well.
Cooking
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer for about 50 minutes, stirring at the 30-minute mark to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
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