Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili Recipe

Warm up your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili recipe. This dish is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors, making it a delightful option for chilly evenings or game day gatherings. The creamy texture of the jalapeño popper base combined with shredded chicken and spicy kick will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredient List

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need:

For the Chili:

• 1 lb (450g) shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 4-5 fresh jalapeños, diced (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups (946ml) chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Topping:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100g) shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
• Green onions and crispy bacon for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

4. Next, stir in the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, white beans, chicken broth, ground cumin, and chili powder.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Topping

7. While the chili is simmering, in a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, and half of the cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
8. Once the chili has simmered, dollop the creamy mixture on top and stir to combine. Allow the chili to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and delicious.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

9. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
10. Garnish with sliced green onions and crispy bacon if desired.

Tips for the Ultimate Chili

• Heat Level: If you prefer a milder chili, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing them.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge to let the flavors intensify.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a cozy night in, this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Chili is sure to impress. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, it’s a dish that truly embodies what comfort food is all about. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm bowl of this delightful chili. Happy cooking!