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Cozy Savory Chicken Chili Recipe Easy One-Pot Classic Dinner Idea

cozy savory chicken chili - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot chicken chili that is cozy, savory, and perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. This recipe features tender chicken, smoky spices, and hearty beans for a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth, preferably low sodium
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of half a lime
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince garlic, and drain and rinse black beans. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch bite-sized chunks. (About 10 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Push veggies to the side, add chicken pieces, and cook until lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, chipotle chili powder (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper over chicken and veggies. Stir well to coat evenly.
  5. Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth. Stir in rinsed black beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  6. Cover pot with lid slightly ajar and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
  7. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Ladle chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro and optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices. Serve with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.

Notes

If chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water during simmering. If too thin, simmer uncovered a few extra minutes. For dairy-free, skip cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out faster; cut into larger chunks and watch cooking time. Slow cooker adaptation: brown chicken and veggies first, then cook on low 4-6 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken chili, one-pot dinner, easy chili recipe, savory chili, weeknight meal, comfort food, smoky chili, healthy chicken recipe, gluten-free chili