If you’re searching for a hearty, cozy meal that’s guaranteed to win hearts around your table, look no further than this Easy Chicken Chili. Packed with tender chicken, two kinds of beans, sweet bell pepper, and a warmly spiced tomato broth, this dish is like a hug in a bowl. Not only does it come together in just 40 minutes, but it’s delightfully healthy, naturally gluten-free, and overflowing with flavor — making it perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you crave comforting food without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this chili is carefully chosen to create a crave-worthy balance of flavors, color, and texture. Even better, you probably have most of them in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Chicken breasts: Lean and high-protein, diced chicken breast makes every bite hearty yet light and satisfying.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps bring out the sweetness from the sautéed veggies.
- Onion: A flavorful base that melts into the chili for wonderful savory notes.
- Red bell pepper: Pops of color and natural sweetness, making the chili extra vibrant.
- Garlic: Just a couple cloves infuse every spoonful with unmistakable depth.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring tangy brightness and the perfect amount of sauciness.
- White beans: Creamy and mild, they bulk up the chili beautifully and absorb all the yummy spices.
- Kidney beans: Their toothsome texture gives the chili a nice variety and classic feel.
- Chicken broth: Keeps things light while letting the seasonings shine and brings everything together.
- Chili powder: Essential for that signature kick and color!
- Ground cumin: Earthy and toasty, cumin gives the chili backbone and warmth.
- Smoked paprika: A tiny bit adds a lovely hint of smokiness without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Dried oregano: Balances out all the spices with a subtle herbal note.
- Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste — these are crucial for rounding out all the flavors.
- Fresh chopped cilantro: Optional, but its bright, citrusy freshness is the perfect finishing touch!
How to Make Easy Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened and their natural sweetness shines. This step is all about building a foundation of flavor for your Easy Chicken Chili.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute, stirring often. You want it fragrant but not browned — it’ll make your kitchen smell incredible and ensures the garlic’s mellow, sweet side comes through in the chili.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the diced chicken breasts to the softened veggies. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. The goal is to lock in juiciness while giving the chicken a bit of texture to stand up to the saucy base.
Step 4: Stir in Beans, Tomatoes, and Spices
This is where the magic happens. Pour in the diced tomatoes, white beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Shake in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Every ingredient layers in flavor, turning this into a seriously rich and satisfying Easy Chicken Chili.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the chili thicken and the flavors meld. Watch as the colors deepen and your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. Give it a taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Ladle the piping-hot chili into bowls and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of green and herby flavor. For a final touch, add a squeeze of lime juice if you like — it wakes everything up deliciously!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Chili
Garnishes
Garnishing is half the fun! A generous scatter of chopped cilantro is classic, but don’t stop there. Try thinly sliced green onions, creamy diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for richness. Even a few tortilla chips on top transform every bowl of Easy Chicken Chili into something special.
Side Dishes
This chili is a meal in itself, but it plays so well with others. Serve it with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or crunchy tortilla chips for scooping. A simple side salad is perfect if you want something fresh on the table too — especially with a zingy lime vinaigrette to match the chili’s flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun gatherings, try serving Easy Chicken Chili in small mugs for a cozy appetizer or party snack. Spoon it over baked potatoes for a comforting twist, or ladle it into bread bowls for ultimate coziness. Top with extra beans, toppings, and a swirl of hot sauce to customize each bowl for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Easy Chicken Chili makes fantastic leftovers! Simply cool the chili to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, so leftovers are somehow even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish is a meal prep superstar. Easy Chicken Chili freezes beautifully — just be sure to cool it down first, then portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Store flat to save space, and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If you’re pressed for time, the microwave works too — just cover the bowl and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If the chili thickens up in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken in this Easy Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! Simply stir in shredded or diced cooked chicken when you add the beans and tomatoes. Simmer just until everything is heated through, then serve. It’s a great way to use rotisserie chicken and save time.
Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
Definitely! Add a diced jalapeño in with the onions and peppers, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the spices. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra fiery bowl of Easy Chicken Chili.
Can I make this Easy Chicken Chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Add an extra can of beans or some chopped zucchini or corn for more bulk and texture.
Will this chili work in a slow cooker?
It sure does! Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic on the stovetop, then add everything (including raw chicken) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender. Shred or dice the chicken and serve with your favorite garnishes.
What can I do if my chili is too thick or thin?
If your Easy Chicken Chili is thicker than you like, just stir in a splash of extra broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered a few more minutes until it reaches your perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Chili is a dish I reach for time and time again, thanks to its rich flavors, healthy ingredients, and utter simplicity. Whether you’re new to chili or a seasoned pro, I just know you’ll fall in love with how easy and satisfying it is. Grab your biggest pot and give it a try — there’s a good chance it’ll become your new weeknight favorite too!
Print
Easy Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Easy Chicken Chili recipe that is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Packed with tender chicken, beans, and aromatic spices, this chili is simple to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Chili:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic.
- Cook chicken: Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for extra brightness.
- This chili freezes well for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
