Chicken Chili Stew
A hearty chicken chili stew packed with tender chicken, tomatoes, beans, and bold spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for spice lovers and families alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, chopped garlic, and chopped green pepper to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until done, about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped stewed tomatoes, drained red beans, Pace Picante Sauce, and chili powder.
- Simmer the stew for an additional 10 minutes to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking. If you don’t have red beans, kidney or black beans work well as substitutes. To enhance the heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh twist. This dish is a great option for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken chili stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. It pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or rice. This dish also complements other Mexican recipes, making it a versatile option for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the stew. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chili Stew contains roughly 321 calories, with 19g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to the stew. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with diced vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more beans for protein and fiber.
How spicy is this chicken chili stew?
The spice level is moderate due to the chili powder and Pace Picante Sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder and choose a mild Picante Sauce. For more heat, add additional spices or fresh chilis.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).