Introduction
This delicious chicken chili is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a heartwarming dish ideal for any occasion. With a creamy base and a delightful kick from green chilis, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting meal. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a gathering with friends, this chili is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
– Chicken: 1 pound, diced
– Yellow onion: 1 large, chopped
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Green chilis: 1 can (4 ounces)
– Corn: 1 cup (canned or frozen)
– Great northern beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– Chicken broth: 4 cups
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Cumin: 1 teaspoon
– Oregano: 1 teaspoon
– Chili powder: 1 tablespoon
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Optional toppings: cilantro, cheese, avocado, sour cream, tortilla chips
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy cooking this hearty chicken chili and delight in the array of flavors and satisfying textures it delivers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1
Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
Step 2
Add diced chicken and chopped yellow onion to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the onions are softened.
Step 3
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 4
Add canned green chilis and corn (either canned or frozen) to the pot, stirring to combine.
Step 5
Drain and rinse great northern beans, then add them to the pot.
Step 6
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder, stirring well to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 7
Pour in chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
Step 8
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for 20 minutes.
Step 9
Remove the pot from heat and stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated.
Step 10
Serve the chili hot, garnished with optional toppings such as chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or tortilla chips.
Notes
Tip 1
Feel free to adjust the level of spice by varying the amount of green chilis or chili powder used.
Tip 2
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tip 3
This chili can also be frozen for later enjoyment—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Cook techniques
Sauteing
Sauteing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of hot oil. In this recipe, the chicken and onions are sauteed until the chicken is cooked through and the onions are softened, enhancing their flavors.
Simmering
Simmering is a cooking technique where food is cooked gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This method allows the flavors to meld together over time, as seen in this chili recipe after adding the chicken broth.
Incorporating
Incorporating is the technique of mixing ingredients together until well combined. The heavy cream is incorporated at the end to create a creamy texture and rich flavor in the chili.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the act of adding decorative and flavorful toppings to a dish before serving. In this chili, optional toppings such as cilantro, cheese, avocado, sour cream, or tortilla chips enhance both the appearance and taste.
FAQ
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk, cashew cream, or a non-dairy milk with a thickener like cornstarch as alternatives to heavy cream.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, while also adding more beans or vegetables for protein.
How spicy is this chili due to the green chilis?
The level of spice depends on the type of green chilis used. For milder chili, use fewer chilis or opt for a mild variety.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or frozen for longer storage, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
What are some good toppings for this chili?
Some delicious toppings include chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken chili recipe combines a variety of ingredients and spices, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish. The creamy texture from the heavy cream pairs well with the savory notes of chicken and beans, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy customizing with various toppings to suit your taste!
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Use the same base ingredients but season the chicken with more chili powder and serve in corn tortillas topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for a zesty taco night.
Chicken and Corn Salad
Transform leftover chili into a vibrant salad by adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. Top with tortilla chips for crunch.
Creamy Chicken Soup
Add additional chicken broth and heavy cream to the chili for a soupier consistency. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty dinner option.
Chili-Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with the chili mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly for a nutritious and filling meal.
Chicken Chili Quesadillas
Spread leftover chili between two tortillas with shredded cheese, grill until crispy, and serve with sour cream and fresh salsa for a quick and tasty dinner.
