High Protein Chicken Chili Recipe
This High Protein Chicken Chili is hands-down one of my absolute favorite healthy comfort meals, and I just can’t wait for you to try it! Bursting with tender chunks of chicken, creamy white beans, colorful veggies, and a perfectly spiced tomato broth, it’s proof that a wholesome, hearty chili can also be quick, easy, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a gym-day meal, a crowd-pleasing dinner, or the kind of leftovers that taste even better the next day, this High Protein Chicken Chili will win you over with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this High Protein Chicken Chili lies in a handful of simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Each one brings its own pop of color, flavor, or texture, making this a dish you’ll want to keep on repeat.
- Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy, and packed with protein, diced chicken gives the chili its main substance and heartiness.
- Olive Oil: A little goes a long way for sautéing the vegetables and infusing the base with subtle richness.
- Onion: Diced onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, creating a wonderful aromatic foundation.
- Green Bell Pepper: This adds crunch, vivid color, and a gentle veggie flavor to the mix.
- Garlic: Just three cloves lend incredible depth and warmth—mince it finely for even distribution.
- White Beans: Creamy and tender, the beans up the protein while making every bite perfectly filling.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring a tangy, bright element that ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth helps create a savory, flavorful chili without overpowering with salt.
- Diced Green Chilies: These stir in a mild heat and irresistible Southwest flair—don’t skip them!
- Chili Powder: The main spice in the show; it brings that signature chili warmth.
- Cumin: Ground cumin adds earthiness and a hint of smokiness to deepen the flavor profile.
- Smoked Paprika: Just a touch rounds out the flavor with subtle smokiness and color.
- Dried Oregano: Classic herbal notes that make everything taste a little brighter.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning—add to taste as you go.
- Fresh Chopped Cilantro: A final sprinkle for freshness, color, and a pop of flavor when serving.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start your High Protein Chicken Chili by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Let them sizzle and soften for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is where the whole kitchen starts smelling amazing—the onions and peppers release their sweetness, creating a deliciously fragrant base. Now, add the minced garlic and cook just until it’s fragrant (one more minute is perfect), being careful not to let it burn.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next up: stir in those diced chicken breasts. Let them brown gently, absorbing all the flavor from your veggies. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes; you want the pieces lightly golden on the outside, but they don’t need to be cooked all the way through just yet. The chicken will finish cooking while your chili simmers, soaking up all those wonderful spices and juices.
Step 3: Add the Beans, Tomatoes, and Flavor
Here’s where your chili really takes shape! Add in the white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and a generous season of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot. The broth will look bright and beautiful, and you’ll see the chili bursting with color already.
Step 4: Simmer and Blend the Flavors
Bring your pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let the High Protein Chicken Chili simmer—uncovered—for 20 to 25 minutes. This is where the rich, savory flavors really mingle and the chicken cooks through. Keep an eye on your pot and give it an occasional stir. When the chili looks thickened and the chicken is tender and cooked, you’re ready to taste and adjust for any extra seasonings.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your steaming High Protein Chicken Chili into bowls and finish with a shower of chopped fresh cilantro. For an extra boost of protein and creaminess, swap in some Greek yogurt for sour cream or even stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen powder. There you go—dinner is served, and you’ve got a bowl of hearty, nourishing chili that’ll keep you coming back for more!
How to Serve High Protein Chicken Chili
Garnishes
The finishing touches can take your High Protein Chicken Chili from great to unforgettable! A big sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds brightness and a fresh, zesty pop. For extra richness, dollop on high-protein Greek yogurt instead of sour cream—it’s creamy, tangy, and boosts the protein content even more. If you love some heat, try a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce. And don’t forget a handful of thinly sliced green onions or a scatter of shredded cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!
Side Dishes
This chili truly shines on its own but loves a tasty sidekick or two. Try it with crunchy baked tortilla chips for dipping, a warm slice of gluten-free cornbread, or a crisp green salad to lighten things up. If you’re feeding a hungry group, serve the High Protein Chicken Chili with baked sweet potatoes or steamed rice to soak up every bit of delicious broth. There’s really no wrong way to enjoy it!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fun and fancy, serve your High Protein Chicken Chili in bread bowls, over roasted veggies, or scoop it into sturdy lettuce cups for a light, handheld option. Top each bowl with different garnishes and let everyone customize their own. For parties or potlucks, try ladling mini servings into small mugs—cozy, cute, and perfect for mingling!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The best part about High Protein Chicken Chili? It tastes even better the next day! Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. The chili will keep beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors will deepen over time. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Freezing
Freezing is a fantastic way to have a healthy meal ready for future busy nights. Cool your chili completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Lay bags flat to save space, and don’t forget to label them! The High Protein Chicken Chili will stay great in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
When it’s time to reheat, you can warm your High Protein Chicken Chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works well too—just heat in short bursts and give it a good stir each time. If the chili gets a bit thick, a splash of broth or water will bring it back to its original, soul-warming consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred or dice the cooked chicken, and add it after the vegetables and beans. Since it’s already cooked, let the chili simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld, rather than the full 20–25 minutes.
How can I make this chili even higher in protein?
To really amp up the protein, stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen powder or add another can of white beans. Swapping in extra chicken or topping with Greek yogurt are also great ways to boost your protein, all without compromising the chili’s delicious flavor.
Is this High Protein Chicken Chili spicy?
This chili has a gentle warmth thanks to the chili powder and green chilies, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can kick up the heat by adding more chili powder, using spicier green chilies, or stirring in a bit of cayenne, depending on your personal taste.
Can I make High Protein Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?
You sure can! Sauté the vegetables and chicken as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for about 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and flavors are blended. Just remember to check seasoning at the end!
What are some dairy-free topping ideas?
If you want to keep your High Protein Chicken Chili dairy-free, try topping your bowl with avocado slices, extra cilantro, jalapeños, diced red onion, or a squeeze of fresh lime. For extra creaminess, a dollop of coconut yogurt works beautifully too!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a crowd-pleasing, healthy, and genuinely comforting dinner, this High Protein Chicken Chili might just become your new go-to. With plenty of lean protein, colorful veggies, and a flavorful kick in every bowl, it’s a feel-good meal you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t wait for a cold day—give it a try and see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!
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High Protein Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This High Protein Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with tender chicken, white beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is a satisfying meal that is easy to make and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
Ingredients:
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Cook chicken: Stir in diced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add ingredients: Add white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, green chilies, spices, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Notes
- For extra protein, stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen powder or add more beans.
- Serve with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
