# Chicken Chili: A Hearty Staple for All Seasons
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
## Introduction
When the mercury drops, or even on a cool summer night, nothing quite warms the heart and the body like a good bowl of homemade Chicken Chili. It’s a hearty, rich dish that makes a complete meal and satisfies the most ravenous of appetites.
## Why Make This Recipe
A hot bowl of Chicken Chili is comforting, nourishing and perfect for sharing. High in protein, brimming with vegetables, and loaded with vibrant flavors, it makes the ideal dish for family dinners, weekend gatherings or meal preps.
## How to Make Hearty Chicken Chili
## Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
* 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
* 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 2 tbsp chili powder
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1 tsp paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Your choice of optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
## Directions:
1. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Next, add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the cubed chicken to the pot, and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and the chicken broth.
6. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Let the mixture come to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer, cover and let it cook for 20 minutes until the flavors have melded fully and the chicken has cooked through.
8. Serve your Chili hot and garnish with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or even some sliced jalapeños.
## How to Serve Hearty Chicken Chili
Serve this comforting Chicken Chili with a side of cornbread or with a handful of tortilla chips. Don’t forget to add your preferred toppings for added taste and presentation!
## How to Store Hearty Chicken Chili
Store leftover Chicken Chili in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months.
## Tips to Make Hearty Chicken Chili
* Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier chili.
* To make your chili spicier, add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce.
## Variations
Add a cup of sweet corn or a diced green bell pepper for additional color and flavor.
## FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the chicken and add an extra can of your preferred beans.
2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can, but they need to be soaked overnight and boiled before you add them to the recipe.
3. How can I make my Chili thicker?
You can cook your Chili uncovered after adding the beans, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and thereby thicken your Chicken Chili.
Enjoy this heartening bowl of Chicken Chili and get ready to receive plenty of compliments!