Get ready to warm up your kitchen with this delicious Spicy Chipotle Chicken Chili. This hearty recipe is perfect for everyone, from beginner cooks to busy families. Packed with flavor and a hint of spice, it’s a meal that can easily become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Chili brings a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s great for chilly days or when you’re looking for a comforting, filling dish. The balanced spices and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, you can make it all in one pot, which means easier cleanup and more time to enjoy good company.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need many ingredients for this flavorful chili. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
- 2 red bell peppers, diced
- 1 large white or yellow onion, diced
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken stock (can use chicken broth)
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 3/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Ingredient Notes, Variations & Simple Swaps
This recipe is flexible and can accommodate different tastes. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chipotle chili powder. You can also switch up the types of peppers used for a unique twist. Adding beans like black beans or pinto beans can enhance the heartiness of the dish. If you’re in a hurry, shredded rotisserie chicken can stand in for the raw chicken breasts, making this dish even quicker to prepare.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Stirring spoon
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1 – Sauté the Veggies
In a large soup pot, heat the olive or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced red bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the veggies are tender and slightly browned. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until the garlic turns golden. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 2 – Combine Ingredients
Next, add the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all the spices to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3 – Cook the Chicken
Place the raw chicken breasts directly into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make your chili even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Always chop vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Stir regularly to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes.
- Taste before serving to adjust seasonings as needed; a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavor.
- To make it extra cozy, top with cheese or avocado right before serving.
Flavor Variations
If you want to switch things up a bit, consider these ideas:
- Add corn for a sweet crunch.
- Swap in ground chicken or turkey for a different texture.
- Experiment with different chili powders for varying heat levels.
- Mix in some fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of flavor and color.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool down the spice.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This chili is delicious on its own, but here are some great pairing ideas:
- Warm cornbread for a classic touch.
- Rice or quinoa to soak up the chili.
- Tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
- A fresh green salad for a light side.
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices as toppings.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Leftovers
This chili stores well and can be made ahead of time. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze portions in separate containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for quick reheating. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive or avocado oil
- 2 pieces red bell peppers, diced
- 1 large white or yellow onion, diced
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken stock (or broth)
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato paste
Spices
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder Reduce for milder chili.
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 0.75 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
Main Protein
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, skinless and boneless Can substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken.
Instructions
Sauté the Veggies
- Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced red bell peppers and onions, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until golden, being careful not to burn it.
Combine Ingredients
- Add the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all the spices to the pot. Stir until well combined.
Cook the Chicken
- Place the raw chicken breasts into the pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to cook the chili a bit longer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Always check the internal temperature to be sure it has reached 165°F.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chipotle chili powder or omit it altogether. You can also add some extra diced bell peppers or even a pinch of sugar to balance the heat if it becomes too spicy.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken are great alternatives if you want to switch up the meat. Just remember that chicken or turkey may require different cooking times.
How long does the chili take to cook?
The total cooking time is around 30 to 35 minutes. This includes about 25 minutes of simmering after the initial sautéing of the vegetables.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in individual portions.
