Chicken Chili With Beans
A hearty chicken chili with beans and green chilies, offering bold flavors and comforting warmth, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken breasts in a Dutch oven or large pot.
- Cover with water and boil for 15 minutes.
- Remove chicken pieces from water and let cool.
- Add the drained beans, chopped green chilies, and corn to the pot.
- Shred the cooled chicken and add it back into the pot.
- Simmer the chili until heated through and flavors meld, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute Great Northern beans with pinto beans or black beans if preferred. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, as it can easily be doubled to serve a crowd. Browse more American recipes for varied ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or some steamed rice. This dish also complements well with Club Sandwiches for a hearty lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if the chili thickens. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chili With Beans contains roughly 470 calories, with 49g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (97% of the Daily Value), potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% 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 frozen chicken breasts instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure that they are fully cooked before shredding. You may need to increase the boiling time to fully thaw and cook the chicken, or consider using a slow cooker for convenience.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To spice up the chili, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking. You can also include chili powder or cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust the heat level according to your preference!
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).