There’s something particularly comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s made with ground chicken. This dish combines savory and spicy flavors, making it a go-to recipe for chilly days or social gatherings with family and friends. Ground chicken chili is not just delicious; it’s also a nutritious alternative to traditional chili made with beef or pork. Packed with protein and a medley of veggies, this dish caters to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
Why We Love This Ground Chicken Chili Recipe
You may wonder why this ground chicken chili stands out among countless other chili recipes. The answer lies in its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability. Ground chicken is lighter than beef, allowing the spices and vegetables to shine through. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for anyone who wants to whip up a hearty meal in no time. Furthermore, the flexibility of this dish means you can easily modify ingredients based on what you have available, making it a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients about Ground Chicken Chili
To prepare your delicious ground chicken chili, gather the following fresh ingredients and pantry staples:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 small jalapeño peppers (optional), diced for spice
Optional toppings:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced jalapeños
- Tortilla chips
How to Make Ground Chicken Chili Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into preparing your ground chicken chili. Follow these simple steps for a chili that’s bursting with flavor.
- Prepare the Base: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. It’s important to use a pot that can hold all the ingredients comfortably. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Next, introduce the minced garlic to the mix. Stir well, allowing the garlic to soften and release its wonderful aroma, for about 1 minute.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pot, using a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart. Cook until it’s browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure it cooks evenly.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: After the chicken is browned, stir in the tomato paste. This ingredient will add a rich, deep flavor to your chili. Let the mixture cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the paste to caramelize slightly.
- Add the Rest of the Ingredients: It’s time to bring everything together. Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Use your spatula to combine everything well, making sure each ingredient is evenly distributed throughout the chili.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld while ensuring the chili thickens to a hearty consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Final Adjustments: After simmering, taste your chili. You might want to adjust the seasoning at this point by adding a bit more salt or spices. If you prefer extra heat, this is a great time to mix in some finely diced jalapeño peppers.
- Serve It Up: Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, your ground chicken chili is ready to be served! Spoon it into bowls while hot and get ready to enjoy a hearty and warming dish.
How to Serve Ground Chicken Chili
Serving ground chicken chili can be as straightforward or as fancy as you prefer. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience:
- Classic Presentation: Ladle your chili into individual bowls, showcasing the colorful ingredients. This method allows everyone to appreciate the vibrant hues of the bell peppers, beans, and tomatoes.
- Toppings Galore: Encourage guests to customize their bowls by offering a toppings bar. Set out options like sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and crunchy tortilla chips. The combination of creamy, spicy, and crunchy toppings adds layers of flavor and texture.
- Accompaniments: Consider pairing your chili with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. This pairing not only complements the chili but also rounds out the meal, making it more filling.
- Make It a Meal: For a heartier dinner, serve the chili alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the appetite.
Expert Tips: Ground Chicken Chili
To ensure your ground chicken chili turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality ground chicken for the best flavor. Organic or free-range chicken will yield a more robust taste compared to conventional options.
- Customize the Heat: Spice levels can be adjusted based on your preferences. If you enjoy a milder chili, omit the jalapeños or use sweet bell peppers only. For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or increasing the amount of chili powder.
- Let It Rest: Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. If possible, make your chili a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge overnight before reheating to serve.
- Thickening the Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, mash some of the beans after they’ve cooked for a smoother texture.
- Experiment with Beans: While black and kidney beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other beans like pinto or cannellini for a different spin.
How to Store Ground Chicken Chili
Properly storing your ground chicken chili can extend its shelf life while preserving its delicious flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: Allow the chili to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored in the refrigerator, your chili remains fresh for about 3-5 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing your chili. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing. Properly frozen chili can be enjoyed for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover chili, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variation of Ground Chicken Chili
Branching out from the classic recipe allows for creative adaptations that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Chili: Substitute ground chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can also increase the variety of beans and add more vegetables like zucchini or corn for a hearty meal.
- White Chicken Chili: Change it up by using white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans) and a creamy base. Use chicken broth and add spices like oregano and white pepper instead of traditional chili spices for a completely different flavor profile.
- Sweet Chili: Introduce elements of sweetness by adding sweet potatoes or butternut squash. The natural sweetness complements the spices beautifully, offering a well-rounded chili.
- Taco Chili: Embrace the flavors of tacos by including taco seasoning instead of chili powder. Serve the chili topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh lime juice to enhance the taco-like experience.
- Slow Cooker Chili: For those who love easy, hands-off cooking, consider making your ground chicken chili in a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
FAQ
What makes ground chicken chili different from traditional chili?
Ground chicken chili is lighter and leaner than traditional chili made with beef or pork. It maintains a hearty flavor while providing a healthier alternative, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Can I make ground chicken chili in advance?
Yes! Ground chicken chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What kind of beans can I use in ground chicken chili?
While black beans and kidney beans are commonly used, you can also experiment with pinto beans, white beans, or any other variety you like. Each type adds its unique flavor and texture to the chili.
How spicy can I make my ground chicken chili?
The spice level can easily be adjusted according to your preference. By adding diced jalapeños or increasing the chili powder, you can make it as spicy as you desire. Alternatively, omit spicier ingredients for a milder flavor.
What are some great toppings for ground chicken chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced jalapeños, and crunchy tortilla chips. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add texture to your dish.
Ground Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 small jalapeño peppers, diced (optional) for extra spice
Optional Toppings
- sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
- shredded cheddar cheese for flavor
- diced jalapeños for additional spice
- tortilla chips for crunch
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Cooking
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, kidney beans, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix well.
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed. Add diced jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
Serving
- Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with optional toppings and sides.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!