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Spicy Ground Chicken Chili – A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

This Spicy Ground Chicken Chili is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or feeding a crowd. Made with lean ground chicken, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices, it delivers bold chili flavor without feeling heavy. It’s easy to prepare in one pot and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. If you’re looking for easy chicken chili recipes that are filling, flavorful, and reliable, this one checks all the boxes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein & Base
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
Beans & Tomatoes
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can tomatoes diced or crushed
Liquids
  • 1 cup chicken broth
Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • These ingredients combine to create a thick satisfying ground chicken chili with balanced heat and classic flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
  1. Add ground chicken to the pot.
  2. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 5–6 minutes, until no longer pink.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices
  1. Stir in diced bell pepper.
  2. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Cook for 1 minute, stirring, to bloom the spices.
Step 4: Build the Chili
  1. Add tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
  2. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer
  1. Bring to a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Add a splash of broth if the chili thickens too much.
🥄 Variations
Extra Spicy: Add chili flakes or more chili powder.
Milder: Reduce chili powder slightly.
Veggie Boost: Add corn or zucchini during simmering.
Thicker Chili: Mash a small portion of beans and stir back in.
Meal Prep Friendly: Flavor improves overnight.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this chili very spicy?
Medium heat and easy to adjust.
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, it works very well.
Does ground chicken stay moist?
Yes, simmering keeps it tender.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce spices if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot.
Do I need toppings?
Optional, but they add texture.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
What sides go well with it?
Rice, baked potatoes, or simple bread.
🏁 Conclusion
This Spicy Ground Chicken Chili is bold, hearty, and comforting—an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy nights, gatherings, or meal prep without any fuss.