Chicken Jalapeño Popper Chili brings a delightful combination of creamy, smoky, and spicy flavors, perfect for warming up during cooler days. Imagine the rich taste of jalapeño poppers transformed into a hearty chili, featuring tender chicken, smoky paprika, and melty cheddar. This recipe is designed for those who love a little kick in their comfort food, and it’s easy to adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients Overview
To craft this chili, you’ll need one pound of cooked, shredded chicken breast as the protein base. Start by sautéing a diced medium onion in olive oil until translucent, then add three minced garlic cloves and three fresh diced jalapeños for a flavor-packed base. Incorporate one cup of corn kernels for sweetness and texture, a can of diced tomatoes, and a can of white beans for heartiness.
For the liquid base, use three cups of chicken broth, and for the creamy element, choose between one cup of heavy cream or cream cheese. To season, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper create a smoky, spicy profile. For a finishing touch, you’ll need shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and serve with tortilla chips.
How to Prepare
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, stirring until it turns translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and jalapeños, cooking until their aromas are released. Next, stir in the corn kernels, followed by the diced tomatoes and white beans. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken.
Season the mixture with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To finish, stir in your choice of heavy cream or cream cheese, letting the chili thicken for another five minutes.
Tips for Success
For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in your jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne. If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds and reduce the amount of chili powder. To achieve a perfectly creamy texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before stirring it in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Jalapeño Popper Chili in bowls, topped generously with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a burst of color and extra spice. Pair with crispy tortilla chips or a side of warm cornbread for a complete meal. This chili is perfect for game days, family dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is a must.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it. This chili also freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use other types of beans? Absolutely! Black beans or kidney beans are excellent alternatives to white beans.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chili? Substitute shredded chicken with diced tofu or a medley of roasted vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What’s the best way to control the spice level? Adjust the number of jalapeños and amount of chili powder to your preference. Adding a dollop of sour cream on top can also mellow the heat.
Conclusion
Chicken Jalapeño Popper Chili is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a comforting meal that combines the best of jalapeño poppers and hearty chili, perfect for any time of the year.
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Chicken Jalapeño Popper Chili: A Comforting, Spicy Twist
Description
A creamy, spicy chili loaded with tender chicken, smoky spices, and the irresistible flavors of jalapeño poppers.
Ingredients
• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 fresh jalapeños, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and jalapeños, cooking until fragrant.
2️⃣ Stir in corn, diced tomatoes, and white beans. Add chicken broth and shredded chicken. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
4️⃣ Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese and cook for another 5 minutes.
5️⃣ Serve hot, topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños.
Enjoy your hearty, spicy bowl of comfort.