There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken and bean chili to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger on a chilly day. This hearty American stew is a delightful combination of tender chicken, protein-packed beans, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences and spice tolerance. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s embark on a culinary journey to create a mouthwatering chicken and bean chili that will have your taste buds singing with joy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 15-ounce cans beans (such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans), rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, beans, and corn to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
In conclusion, chicken and bean chili is a comforting and hearty American stew that brings together tender chicken, nourishing beans, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. To make the most of this delicious dish, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as crisp bell peppers, fragrant spices, and tender chicken. Additionally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your choice of beans and toppings to add variety and personal flair to your chili. With its satisfying taste and soul-warming appeal, chicken and bean chili is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary collection.