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When you’re juggling a busy schedule, finding time to cook a hearty, healthy meal can be a real challenge.
But with this ground chicken chili recipe, your weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier.
This quick, protein-packed meal is not only delicious but also comes together in under 30 minutes!
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family on those hectic nights.
Ready to spice up your weeknight routine with a simple, flavorful dish?
Let’s dive into this ultimate chili recipe.
Why Ground Chicken Chili for Busy Weeknights?
Ground chicken is a lean, versatile protein that cooks up quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
This recipe is designed to be simple and satisfying, while also providing the nutritional benefits of a healthy meal.
You’ll love how the chili comes together with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or a little extra heat.
Health Benefits: Ground chicken is lower in fat compared to ground beef, making this dish a lighter option that’s still filling and comforting.
Meal Prep Friendly: Double the recipe and enjoy it throughout the week, or freeze it for a future meal when time is tight. This chili reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with liquid)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips for added crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well. Add the kidney beans and black beans, making sure everything is mixed together.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado. Enjoy!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
1. Prep Your Ingredients in Advance
Chop your vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and garlic ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
This will save you several minutes of prep work when you’re ready to cook.
You can even brown the ground chicken a day or two before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
2. Use Pre-Chopped or Frozen Vegetables
For ultimate convenience, buy pre-chopped onions, bell peppers, or minced garlic from the grocery store.
Frozen vegetables can also be a lifesaver—they’re pre-cut, and you can toss them straight into the pot. This not only saves time but also cuts down on clean-up.
3. Opt for Canned Beans and Tomatoes
Using canned beans and tomatoes is a huge time-saver compared to cooking dried beans from scratch or using fresh tomatoes.
Canned beans are pre-cooked, so all you need to do is drain, rinse, and add them to the chili.
Canned diced tomatoes with added seasonings can also enhance the flavor without requiring additional time to chop or prepare.
4. Try a Store-Bought Spice Mix
Instead of measuring out individual spices, you can use a pre-made chili seasoning mix, which already contains a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and other spices.
This cuts down on ingredient prep and still delivers great flavor.
Just adjust the seasoning to taste, especially the salt content.
5. One-Pot Cooking Method
This recipe is designed to be made in a single pot, which not only saves time but also reduces the amount of clean-up afterward.
Cooking everything in one pot—sautéing the vegetables, browning the chicken, and simmering the chili—keeps things streamlined.
6. Use an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker
For hands-off cooking, try using an Instant Pot or slow cooker.
With an Instant Pot, you can brown the chicken using the sauté function, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes.
With a slow cooker, simply transfer the browned chicken and sautéed vegetables into the pot, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Both methods allow you to walk away and come back to a ready-to-eat meal.
7. Double the Recipe for Future Meals
Make a double batch of this ground chicken chili, and you’ll have plenty of leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Chili tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for reheating.
You can also freeze extra portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
8. Quick Thaw Frozen Chili
If you’ve pre-made and frozen chili, you can quickly thaw it by placing the frozen container in a bowl of warm water for 20-30 minutes before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For even faster thawing, portion the chili into individual servings before freezing, so you only thaw what you need.
9. Keep Your Kitchen Organized
Having your kitchen essentials organized will shave minutes off your cooking time.
Keep frequently used items like oil, salt, pepper, and spatulas within reach.
Group all your spices together and store your canned goods in one place so you can grab everything quickly when it’s time to cook.
10. Make It a One-Dish Meal
By adding extra vegetables to this chili (like zucchini or spinach), you can make it a well-rounded, one-dish meal without needing to cook any additional sides.
This reduces both prep and cook time, allowing you to focus on one pot instead of juggling multiple dishes.
These expanded Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks are perfect for readers who want to simplify the cooking process, reduce prep time, and enjoy a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
Variations and Alternatives
1. Vegetarian Ground “Chicken” Chili
Looking for a meat-free version?
Substitute the ground chicken with plant-based ground meat alternatives or simply add more beans and vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and corn, for a hearty vegetarian chili.
You can also include quinoa or lentils for extra protein and texture.
2. Ground Turkey or Beef Chili
If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with ground turkey or ground beef.
Ground turkey is a leaner option similar to ground chicken, while ground beef adds a richer, more robust flavor.
Adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the meat you choose.
3. Low-Carb Ground Chicken Chili
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, skip the beans and add more low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower.
You can also increase the chicken broth to maintain the consistency and flavor of the chili.
4. White Ground Chicken Chili
For a different spin on the classic chili, try making a white chicken chili.
Use white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans), green chilies, and a broth-based sauce instead of tomatoes.
Add in a little cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier consistency.
5. Spicy Ground Chicken Chili
If you’re a fan of spicy food, feel free to dial up the heat!
Add extra cayenne pepper, fresh chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to the chili.
You can also serve it with spicy toppings like pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha.
6. Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Chili
For a heartier and slightly sweet variation, add diced sweet potatoes to the chili.
They add a lovely depth of flavor and are a great complement to the smoky spices.
Simply add the sweet potatoes to the pot along with the beans and tomatoes, and let them cook until tender.
7. Bean-Free Ground Chicken Chili
If you’re avoiding beans, you can still enjoy a delicious bowl of chili.
Replace the beans with extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or chopped zucchini.
You could also add cauliflower rice or mushrooms to bulk up the dish while keeping it low-carb.
Serving Suggestions
1. Classic Chili Toppings
For a traditional chili experience, top your ground chicken chili with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro.
These classic toppings add creaminess, a touch of tang, and freshness to balance the flavors.
2. Serve with Cornbread
Pair your chili with warm, buttery cornbread for a cozy, satisfying meal.
The slightly sweet flavor of the cornbread complements the savory, spicy chili perfectly.
You can also crumble the cornbread into the chili for added texture.
3. Chili with Rice or Quinoa
To make your meal more filling, serve the chili over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or quinoa.
The grains soak up the flavorful chili, turning it into a hearty, complete meal.
This option is great for feeding a hungry crowd.
4. Tortilla Chips or Corn Chips
For a crunchy twist, serve the chili with tortilla chips or corn chips on the side.
You can even use the chips as scoops to eat the chili, adding a fun, interactive element to the meal.
Corn chips also add a delicious contrast in texture.
5. Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Turn your chili into a comforting, loaded baked potato meal.
Bake or microwave large russet potatoes, slice them open, and stuff them with a generous helping of chili.
Top with cheese, sour cream, and chives for a delicious twist.
6. Chili Dogs
For a fun, casual meal, serve the chili on top of hot dogs in soft buns.
Add cheese, onions, or mustard for extra flavor.
This is a great way to repurpose leftover chili and is a hit with kids and adults alike.
7. Chili Bowls with Fresh Avocado
For a lighter, refreshing twist, top your chili with sliced or diced avocado.
The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the rich, spicy chili and adds a healthy dose of fats.
You can also drizzle a bit of lime juice on top to brighten the flavors.
8. Serve with a Side Salad
Balance the heartiness of the chili with a crisp, refreshing side salad.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the bold flavors of the chili while adding some fresh, crunchy elements to the meal.
9. Chili Nachos
Transform your ground chicken chili into a fun appetizer or party dish by making chili nachos.
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with spoonfuls of chili, cheese, jalapeños, and bake until the cheese is melted.
Garnish with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for an irresistible treat.
10. Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a healthier, low-carb option, try stuffing your chili into halved bell peppers and baking them until the peppers are tender.
Top with cheese and bake for an additional few minutes for a comforting, hearty meal that’s loaded with vegetables.
This Serving Suggestions section gives readers plenty of creative ways to enjoy their ground chicken chili, catering to different tastes and preferences while maximizing the versatility of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
1. Storing in the Refrigerator
Ground chicken chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Make sure the chili is completely cooled before transferring it to the container to avoid excess moisture build-up, which can affect the texture and flavor.
2. Freezing for Longer Storage
This chili freezes wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
For easier thawing and portion control, you can freeze the chili in individual portions.
Tip: If using freezer bags, lay them flat to freeze for space-efficient storage and quicker thawing.
3. Reheating from the Refrigerator
To reheat refrigerated chili, place it in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to avoid splattering.
Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until warm.
4. Reheating from Frozen
For frozen chili, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Once thawed, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fully heated.
If you’re short on time, you can also reheat the chili directly from frozen by microwaving it or placing it in a pot with a splash of water or broth.
Cover and heat on low until fully warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Tip: Chili tends to thicken when stored, so you may want to add a little water or broth while reheating to get it back to your desired consistency.
5. Refreezing
While it’s best to consume chili after its initial thaw, you can safely refreeze chili once if needed.
Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator and not at room temperature to maintain food safety.
Ground Chicken Chili Recipe
Ground Chicken Chili Recipe
Instructions
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with liquid)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips for added crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well. Add the kidney beans and black beans, making sure everything is mixed together.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
Notes
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
- Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and pre-cook the ground chicken over the weekend to make assembly a breeze on weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Use one large pot for the entire process to minimize clean-up.
- Freezing Tip: This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Store it in individual portions for quick grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
Did you try this Ground Chicken Chili Recipe?
Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
Don’t forget to share your bowl on social media with your favorite toppings—we’d love to see your creations!
Looking for more quick weeknight meals?
Check out these related recipes that are just as fast and delicious!
Quick and Easy Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A Healthy Meal in Minutes
The Best Italian Ground Chicken Meatballs Recipe: Light, Flavorful, and Easy!
FAQ Section
1. Can I make this ground chicken chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! This recipe is very adaptable to a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers with the ground chicken on the stovetop first. Then transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll have a delicious, hands-off dinner ready!
2. Can I freeze ground chicken chili?
Absolutely! Ground chicken chili freezes very well. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Can I substitute ground turkey or beef for ground chicken?
Yes, you can easily swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef in this recipe. Ground turkey will have a similar flavor profile to chicken, while ground beef will add a richer, heartier taste. Adjust the cooking time as necessary depending on the meat used.
4. How can I make this chili spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add in fresh chopped jalapeños during cooking. You can also top the chili with spicy salsa, hot sauce, or even crushed red pepper flakes for extra kick.
5. What are some good toppings for ground chicken chili?
Some great toppings for ground chicken chili include shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, jalapeños, and lime wedges. These additions enhance the flavor and texture, making the chili even more satisfying.
6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! The chili itself is naturally dairy-free. Just skip toppings like cheese and sour cream, or use dairy-free alternatives such as plant-based cheese and yogurt for a dairy-free meal.
7. How long can I store ground chicken chili in the fridge?
You can store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week.
