Green Chile Chicken Chili is the kind of cozy, vibrant dish that wins over crowds and makes weeknights feel special. With juicy chicken, creamy white beans, sweet corn, and the unmistakable tang of green chiles, every spoonful is layered with hearty, Southwestern flavor. It’s impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a lazy Sunday, and the make-ahead options make it a true kitchen hero. If you’re craving a one-pot meal that’s both nourishing and a little exciting, give this chili a try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind a fantastic Green Chile Chicken Chili is a short, no-fuss ingredient list that packs a punch. Every component brings something unique — the tender chicken satisfies, the green chiles give zippy personality, and fresh lime and cilantro make it pop with brightness.
- Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Breasts or Thighs): Use diced chicken for juicy, quick-cooking protein that soaks up all the chili flavors.
- Olive Oil: A tablespoon is all you need for sautéing and bringing out the onion’s sweetness.
- Onion: Diced onion gives the chili a savory foundation and aromatic depth.
- Garlic: A must for bold, warm flavor; mince it fresh for best results.
- Diced Green Chiles: The star of the show! Use mild or hot varieties depending on your spice preference.
- White Beans: These add creamy texture and extra protein — drain and rinse before adding.
- Sweet Corn: Brightens up the chili with gentle sweetness and a pleasant pop.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory base that ties everything together; use low sodium if you prefer.
- Ground Cumin: Essential for earthy, unmistakably Southwestern warmth.
- Dried Oregano: Adds herbal notes that balance out the richness.
- Smoked Paprika: A little bit brings subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chili.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste and layer flavors as you cook.
- Fresh Cilantro: Stirred in at the end for fresh, herby contrast.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Finishes the chili with a zingy, uplifting note — don’t skip it!
- Shredded Cheese and Sour Cream (Optional): For serving and adding creamy, melty goodness.
How to Make Green Chile Chicken Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about five minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Next, toss in your minced garlic, letting it cook for just a minute or so until its incredible aroma fills the kitchen. This is your flavor base — be patient and let the onion and garlic become fragrant and mellow.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Turn up the excitement by adding the diced chicken to the pot. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is lightly golden on all sides. The gentle browning locks in flavor and ensures your Green Chile Chicken Chili will have those deliciously juicy bites in every spoonful.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Spices
Now is when your chili really comes to life! Stir in the diced green chiles, drained white beans, and sweet corn. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil. The mix of colors and scents at this stage is irresistible!
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat so the chili simmers gently, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes. Give it a stir every so often to keep things cooking evenly. This simmering time lets the chicken finish cooking through and allows all the flavors to meld into that signature Green Chile Chicken Chili harmony.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
When the chili is ready, take it off the heat and stir in chopped cilantro and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice. These finishing touches wake up all the flavors and give your Green Chile Chicken Chili a truly restaurant-worthy brightness. Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream, if you like!
How to Serve Green Chile Chicken Chili
Garnishes
The right toppings make every bowl of Green Chile Chicken Chili extra special. Classic garnishes like shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese and a swirl of sour cream add cozy richness. For a burst of freshness, sprinkle on extra cilantro, chopped green onions, or a few slices of jalapeño for a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This chili is begging to be paired with something to scoop, dip, or mop up every last drop. Warm, buttery cornbread is an unbeatable match, but tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas on the side are just as crave-worthy. For a light, crisp counterpoint, try a simple salad with a citrusy vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving Green Chile Chicken Chili at a gathering? Create a chili bar! Set out bowls of chili with all sorts of toppings and sides so everyone can build their perfect bowl. Or ladle your chili into individual mugs for hearty, portable comfort food at game day parties or movie nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Green Chile Chicken Chili is your saving grace for busy days — just cool the chili completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it keeps beautifully for up to four days. The flavors only get better as they mingle!
Freezing
This chili freezes like a dream. Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. Label and freeze for up to three months. It’s a lifesaver to stash away for those “what’s for dinner?” nights.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely, cooking in short intervals and stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be added after the onions and garlic are cooked. Simmer the mixture for just 10–15 minutes to heat everything through and meld the flavors.
What’s the best substitute for white beans?
Cannellini or Great Northern beans are perfect, but you can use chickpeas for a twist, or even pinto beans for a creamier, Southwestern spin in your Green Chile Chicken Chili.
How do I make this chili spicier?
Craving more heat? Stir in a finely chopped fresh jalapeño or swap the diced green chiles for a hot variety. A dash of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce can also kick things up a notch.
Can I make Green Chile Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic on the stove first, then add all ingredients (except cilantro and lime) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, then finish with cilantro and lime right before serving.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes — all the ingredients in Green Chile Chicken Chili are naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check labels on broth and canned goods to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you want a comforting meal that’s both exciting and easy, Green Chile Chicken Chili should be at the top of your to-cook list. The flavors are fresh, bold, and deeply satisfying — I can’t wait for you to taste just how delicious this classic can be! Gather your ingredients and let this become a new favorite in your home.
Print
Green Chile Chicken Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Green Chile Chicken Chili, a flavorful twist on classic chili recipes. Packed with tender chicken, green chiles, white beans, and corn in a savory broth seasoned with aromatic spices, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Green Chile Chicken Chili:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (4 ounces each) diced green chiles
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Shredded cheese and sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook Chicken: Add diced chicken, cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer Chili: Stir in green chiles, white beans, corn, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in cilantro and lime juice. Ladle into bowls, top with cheese and sour cream if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño or use hot green chiles.
- Delicious with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
