Red Chicken Chili Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Red Chicken Chili to satisfy your cravings for something bold and comforting. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this unbelievably easy recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

Packed with tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and a smoky blend of spices, this chili is both wholesome and deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that comes together effortlessly—perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the hassle.

So, if you’re looking for a flavorful chili that’s easy to make and even better the next day, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Key Benefits

Why will you love this Red Chicken Chili Recipe? Let’s break it down:

Quick & Easy: This chili comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients and minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Packed with Flavor: A bold blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika infuses the dish with deep, smoky warmth.

Protein-Packed & Wholesome: Made with lean chicken, hearty beans, and fresh veggies, it’s a satisfying meal that fuels your body.

Versatile & Customizable: Prefer more heat? Add extra red chili peppers. Want it creamy? Stir in some sour cream or shredded cheese.

Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish for busy weeks.

Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a compound known for its metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Learn more about the health benefits of chili peppers.

With all these benefits, you’ll want to make this hearty chicken chili a regular in your meal rotation. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Red Chicken Chili Recipe – Ingredients

Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather everything you need to make this Red Chicken Chili. Each ingredient plays a key role in building bold, comforting flavors, so be sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible.

Main Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Tender and juicy, they soak up the rich chili flavors beautifully.
• Red chili peppers (or crushed red pepper flakes) – Adds a touch of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
• Diced tomatoes (with juices) – Provides a rich, tangy base for the chili.
• Tomato paste – Deepens the flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Kidney beans or black beans – Adds heartiness and a boost of fiber.
• Bell peppers (red or green) – Brings a subtle sweetness and color contrast.
• Onion and garlic – Essential for a flavorful chili foundation.
• Chicken broth – Helps create a smooth, savory base.

Spices & Seasonings:

• Chili powder – The star spice that gives the chili its signature warmth.
• Ground cumin – Adds a subtle earthiness and depth.
• Smoked paprika – Provides a hint of smokiness for a more complex flavor.
• Oregano – Balances out the bold spices with a touch of herbal freshness.
• Salt and black pepper – To enhance all the flavors.

Optional Additions:

• Corn kernels – For a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Sour cream or shredded cheese – To make it extra creamy when serving.
• Fresh cilantro or green onions – A bright, herby finish.

Now that we have everything ready, let’s start cooking this hearty and flavorful chili!

How to Make Red Chicken Chili

Making this Red Chicken Chili is incredibly simple, and the result is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these easy steps to create a bowl of comforting chili that’s rich, bold, and absolutely delicious.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly golden—this is where the deep, savory flavors begin to develop.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the boneless chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Sear them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. This step locks in moisture and enhances the overall taste of the chili.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano, coating the chicken and aromatics in the warm, smoky spices. Let them toast for a minute to intensify their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Core Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth, followed by the kidney beans and bell peppers. Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using chicken breasts, remove them after cooking, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot for a perfectly tender texture.

Step 6: Adjust & Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. If you love extra heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced red chili peppers. Let the chili sit for a few minutes before serving—it only gets better as the flavors meld together!

Now, grab your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro, and enjoy a warm bowl of this irresistible homemade chicken chili!

Pro Tips and Variations

To make sure your Red Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips and variations you can try. Whether you’re aiming for extra flavor or making it your own, these ideas will elevate your chili game.

Pro Tips:

• Sear the Chicken: Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken. It helps lock in juices and adds a deeper flavor to the chili.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding the meat.
• Let It Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the better it will taste. If you have the time, let it cook for an extra 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chili before serving. If it needs more heat, add extra chili powder or red pepper flakes. A splash of lime juice can also brighten the flavors if needed.

Variations:

• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and load up the chili with extra beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or corn for added texture.
• Add Extra Heat: If you’re a spice lover, try adding jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or habaneros for a fiery kick.
• Creamy Chili: Stir in some cream cheese or heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a creamy, velvety chili.
• Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

With these pro tips and easy variations, you can make this hearty chicken chili exactly how you like it!

Serving Suggestions for Red Chicken Chili

Once your Red Chicken Chili is ready, it’s time to think about how you want to serve it! This dish is so versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and toppings that take it from delicious to extraordinary. Here are a few serving suggestions that will make your chili even more irresistible.

Topping Ideas:

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy blend of pepper jack melts beautifully on top of the chili, adding a creamy richness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast and helps cool down any extra heat.
• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only brightens up the dish visually but adds a fresh herbal note that complements the rich chili.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving enhances the flavors and gives the chili a zesty lift.
• Avocado: For extra creaminess and a subtle flavor balance, top your chili with sliced avocado or a generous scoop of guacamole.

Side Pairings:

• Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread is a classic pairing with chili. You can go for traditional cornbread, cornbread muffins, or even jalapeño cornbread for a spicy twist.
• Rice: Serve the chili over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice soaks up all the delicious broth, making each bite a bit more filling.
• Tortilla Chips or Crisps: For a crunchy contrast, serve with tortilla chips or crisps on the side. You can even use them to scoop up the chili!
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing, crisp contrast to the hearty chili.

For a Hearty Meal:

Serve the chili with a side of grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a vegetable medley for a filling and well-rounded meal. You can also try baked potatoes as a base for your chili—just load them up with all the toppings for a delicious twist.

The great thing about this Red Chicken Chili is that it pairs beautifully with so many sides and toppings, making it easy to customize for any occasion!

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Red Chicken Chili

This Red Chicken Chili is not just another soup or stew—it’s a cozy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you up on a chilly day or a dish to impress your friends at a casual gathering, this chili ticks all the boxes.

With its rich combination of tender chicken, smoky spices, and a perfect balance of heat, this chili is satisfying yet easy to make. And the best part? It’s incredibly adaptable! You can tweak it to suit your preferences, whether you want it spicier, creamier, or even vegetarian.

So next time you’re craving comfort food with a kick, give this Red Chicken Chili Recipe a try. It’s sure to become a go-to dish you’ll return to time and time again. Plus, the leftovers are just as good (if not better!) the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Give it a try today, and you’ll soon see why this chili is a crowd-pleaser!

Red Chicken Chili Recipe Recap

Sarah

This Red Chicken Chili Recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with tender chicken, tomatoes, beans, and bold spices. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, it's easy to make and full of rich, comforting flavors. Serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for the ultimate chili experience! 🌶🍲

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Tender and juicy, they soak up the rich chili flavors beautifully
• Red chili peppers or crushed red pepper flakes Adds a touch of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
• Diced tomatoes with juices Provides a rich, tangy base for the chili.
• Tomato paste Deepens the flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Kidney beans or black beans Adds heartiness and a boost of fiber.
• Bell peppers red or green Brings a subtle sweetness and color contrast.
• Onion and garlic Essential for a flavorful chili foundation.
• Chicken broth Helps create a smooth savory base.

Spices & Seasonings:

• Chili powder The star spice that gives the chili its signature warmth.
• Ground cumin Adds a subtle earthiness and depth.
• Smoked paprika Provides a hint of smokiness for a more complex flavor.
• Oregano Balances out the bold spices with a touch of herbal freshness.
• Salt and black pepper To enhance all the flavors.

Optional Additions:

• Corn kernels For a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Sour cream or shredded cheese To make it extra creamy when serving.
• Fresh cilantro or green onions A bright herby finish.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then toss in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly golden—this is where the deep, savory flavors begin to develop.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Add the boneless chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Sear them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. This step locks in moisture and enhances the overall taste of the chili.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

• Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano, coating the chicken and aromatics in the warm, smoky spices. Let them toast for a minute to intensify their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Core Ingredients

• Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth, followed by the kidney beans and bell peppers. Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

• Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using chicken breasts, remove them after cooking, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot for a perfectly tender texture.

Step 6: Adjust & Serve

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. If you love extra heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced red chili peppers. Let the chili sit for a few minutes before serving—it only gets better as the flavors meld together!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg

Keyword Hearty Chili Recipe, Red Chicken Chili Recipe, Spicy Chicken Chili

FAQs About Red Chicken Chili

If you’re new to making Red Chicken Chili, you might have some questions. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Below are some frequently asked questions to help ensure your chili turns out perfectly.

With these FAQs, you should be ready to dive into making your own Red Chicken Chili and customize it to your liking! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and adjustments to make it truly your own.