
Zesty Green Chicken Chili – A Comforting One-Pot Recipe
Introduction
Warm, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, Zesty Green Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, a mildly spicy green chili broth, and bold spices, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups green enchilada sauce or tomatillo salsa
- 1 can (4 oz) green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, lime wedges, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, tortilla chips
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 2: Create the Broth
- Add chicken broth, green enchilada sauce, and green chiles to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Mix in cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover the pot. Cook for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the broth. Let the chili simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as diced avocado, lime wedges, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese.
- Serve hot with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side.
Pro Tips
- Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture.
- Use a rotisserie chicken for an even quicker preparation—just skip the searing and simmering steps.
- To make it spicier, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Conclusion
Zesty Green Chicken Chili is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both hearty and healthy. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
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