Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, the Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe is just the ticket! This delightful chili is not only comforting but also packed with bright, zesty flavors from the salsa verde. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table.

What makes this chili even more special is its ease of preparation. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Prepare this hearty chili in just 25 minutes! Ideal for those hectic evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: The vibrant flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can whip up a big batch ahead of time for busy days.
• Versatile toppings: Dress it up with your favorite garnishes like avocado or tortilla chips for an extra layer of flavor and fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Gather these items to create a flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the beans: Try pinto beans or kidney beans if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer a little kick!

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 along with the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them while stirring frequently for about five minutes until they become soft. This step is essential as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and enhances the overall flavor of your chili.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Chicken

Next, stir in the cooked chicken along with ground cumin and chili powder. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those spices to coat the chicken beautifully, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Mix in Salsa Verde and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add your star ingredients! Pour in the salsa verde, fire-roasted tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken stock, and black beans. Give everything a good mix until well combined. This mixture will simmer together to develop rich flavors.

Step 4: Let It Simmer

Once everything is mixed together, let it come to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to cook for about ten minutes. This simmering time lets all those wonderful flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 5: Serve Up Your Chili

Serve your delicious salsa verde chicken chili hot! Feel free to garnish with sour cream, chopped avocado, grated cheese, or crunchy tortilla chips. And don’t forget—squeezing a little fresh lime juice over each bowl adds an incredible brightness!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard since it’s so tasty!), just cover them up! They will keep well in the refrigerator for several days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Let me know how yours turns out! Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

Making this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili is a breeze, and with these helpful tips, you can make it even better!

• Use rotisserie chicken – This saves time and adds incredible flavor. A store-bought rotisserie chicken is already seasoned and cooked, making it perfect for a quick meal.
• Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder chili, opt for a mild salsa verde and skip the chili powder. You can always add hot sauce later for those who like more heat!
• Add veggies – Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped zucchini or corn. They blend well with the flavors and add wonderful texture.
• Make it ahead – This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Freeze for later – Portion out any leftovers into freezer-safe containers. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it.

How to Serve Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness that complements the tangy salsa verde perfectly.
• Sliced jalapeños – For those who appreciate an added kick, sliced jalapeños can enhance both flavor and presentation.
• Crushed tortilla chips – Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chili’s smooth texture.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – Sweet and buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up all those fabulous flavors while adding a comforting touch.
• Rice or quinoa – Serving your chili over a bed of rice or quinoa makes it more filling and adds an extra layer of texture to each bite.
• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili while providing refreshing crunch.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips – A classic combination! The creamy guacamole complements the chili’s flavors, while tortilla chips are perfect for dipping.

Now that you know how to elevate your Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy this cozy dish together!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also super easy to store and reheat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chili in an airtight container.
• Make sure to refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the flavors beautifully!

What can I serve with Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili?

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

Is Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and black beans while being low in saturated fat. It’s a great option for a healthy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

How do I adjust the spice level in my Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili?

You can control the spice by choosing mild salsa verde or adding fresh jalapeños. For less heat, omit any spicy garnishes like hot sauce or spicy peppers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Chili Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings everyone together. Enjoy making it your own with your favorite toppings and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!