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Creamy Chicken Chili

Creamy Chicken Chili
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Creamy Chicken Chili is a rich and comforting one-pot meal that blends tender chicken with a smooth, creamy sauce and a blend of warm spices. This hearty chili is both satisfying and versatile, perfect for chilly days or family dinners. With an easy-to-follow recipe and customizable options, it offers a delicious twist on traditional chili that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast or Thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • Optional: Pinto or Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)

Aromatics & Vegetables

  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) Canned Diced Tomatoes
  • 1–2 Green Chilies or 1 Jalapeño, diced
  • Optional: Corn, Bell Peppers, or Zucchini (1 cup, diced)

Liquids & Dairy

  • 2 cups Chicken Broth
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese or ½ cup Heavy Cream

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp Chili Powder
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste

Fats

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and lightly season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until no longer pink in the center, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to evenly coat the chicken and aromatics. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and mix well to combine all the flavors.
  4. Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to reduce slightly.
  5. Stir in Cream and Finish: Lower the heat and add cream cheese or heavy cream. Stir continuously until the cream fully melts and the chili forms a smooth, creamy sauce. If using beans or extra vegetables, add them now and warm gently through.
  6. Final Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preference. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful pieces.
  • Sear chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and achieve better browning.
  • Do not skip simmering; slow cooking allows flavors to meld perfectly.
  • Use fresh spices like freshly ground cumin and chili powder for vibrant flavor.
  • Temper cream cheese by adding it in small increments to avoid curdling.
  • Customize spice level by adding extra jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat.
  • Substitute cream cheese with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Leftover chili can be stored up to 3 days refrigerated or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently adding broth or water if chili has thickened too much.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy chicken chili, comfort food, one-pot meal, easy chicken chili, creamy chili, family dinner, hearty chili

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/creamy-chicken-chili/