Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty beans. It’s one of those recipes that warms the soul and brings everyone to the table with smiles.

What makes this chili so special? It’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick dinner idea, this dish fits every occasion perfectly. Plus, it stores well for leftovers, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious chili simmering away in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The vibrant flavors and cozy textures make this chili a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it for a delightful weeknight dinner.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite garnishes like avocado or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious dish!

For the Chili

• 1 onion, (medium, chopped)
• 1 bell pepper, (seeded and chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cups cooked chicken, (cut or shredded into bite-size pieces)
• 16 ounces salsa verde, (jarred)
• 10 ounces can diced tomatoes and green chilies with juice
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 30 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juice (2-15 oz cans)
• 15 ounces black beans, (canned, rinsed, and drained)

Optional Garnishes

• Sour cream
• Chopped avocado
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Tortilla chips

Variations

One of the best things about this chili is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or zucchini for an extra serving of vegetables.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicier salsa verde.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some cream cheese or coconut milk at the end for a rich texture.

How to Make Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan or dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté frequently for about five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your chili.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Next, stir in the cooked chicken along with ground cumin and chili powder. Mixing these spices at this point allows their flavors to bloom and coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in the stars of our dish! Pour in the salsa verde, fire-roasted tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including their juice), chicken stock, and black beans. Mix everything together well; this will be your delicious base.

Step 4: Simmer

Once your mixture begins to simmer gently, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about ten minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together. This step ensures that every spoonful is bursting with taste!

Step 5: Serve Hot!

Serve your chili hot! Feel free to garnish each bowl with sour cream, chopped avocado, grated cheese, or tortilla chips for added crunch. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving adds a delightful zing!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), cover them well in an airtight container. They should keep nicely in the refrigerator for several days—perfect for lunch tomorrow!

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

Making this chili is a breeze, and with these simple tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables can enhance the flavors significantly. Fresh cilantro or lime zest can add a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This allows you to customize the heat to your liking, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Preparing it in advance is a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Experiment with beans: If black beans aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them out for pinto or kidney beans. This can change the texture and flavor profile while still keeping it delicious!
• Top it off creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Try crispy tortilla strips, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra zing.

How to Serve Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your salsa verde chicken chili is just as fun as preparing it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the tanginess of the salsa verde.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro offers a fresh, herbal note that complements the chili’s flavors perfectly.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your bowl just before eating brightens up all those delicious tastes!

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for dipping into your chili and will soak up all that wonderful sauce.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and make for an excellent scoop for your chili!
• Mexican rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices provides a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the chili.
• Simple green salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the heartiness of the chili.

Enjoy serving this delightful salsa verde chicken chili recipe—it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili is a fantastic option for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also perfect for making in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Transfer to an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down fully before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein or additional beans. Just keep the same cooking instructions for a hearty vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe?

This chili pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with avocado, sour cream, or cheese for extra flavor!

How spicy is this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe?

The spice level depends on your salsa verde choice. If you prefer a milder chili, look for less spicy salsa brands or add more diced tomatoes to balance out the heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and make it your own. Happy cooking!