Easy Chicken Chili Recipe: 45-Minute Spicy Dinner with Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot with toppings of your choice.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Chili

For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients and allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes. To control spice level: remove seeds from peppers for mild heat, or add jalapeño slices for extra kick. For a richer texture, stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste during cooking.

Product	Recommended Quality	Why Choose It	Best Use Case
Chili Powder	Organic, no additives	Consistent flavor and heat level	Essential for authentic chili base
Smoked Paprika	Spanish-style, sweet variety	Adds depth without excessive heat	Perfect for balancing spice profiles
Kidney Beans	Canned, low-sodium	Convenient and protein-rich	Great for quick meals and meal prep
Tomato Paste	Concentrated, no added sugar	Deepens flavor without diluting	Key for rich, robust chili texture

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast? Yes, chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor. Use boneless thighs and cook 5 minutes longer.

How to store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently on stove with a splash of water.

Is this recipe spicy? The heat level is customizable. Start with 1 tsp chili powder and adjust to taste.