Ground Chicken Chilli Recipe: Hearty Weeknight Comfort

This Ground Chicken Chilli Recipe is my go-to for a hearty weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warm and filling.

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in no time. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Chilli

Simple, comforting ingredients come together in this hearty Ground Chicken Chilli Recipe.

For the best flavor, use high-quality chili powder from Penzeys or a similar reputable spice brand. Fresh garlic and onion make a big difference—don’t skip them. If you’re using canned beans, look for BPA-free cans and rinse them well.

No ground cumin? Use regular cumin at the same amount. Want more heat? Add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce to taste. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more beans or roasted vegetables.

This chilli improves with time—make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezer-safe containers work best for storage.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Chicken Chilli

Let’s cook this hearty chilli together – a perfect weeknight comfort meal.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken

Heat the 2 tbsp Olive Oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb Ground Chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to brown and the edges begin to crisp.

Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. If you notice any large chunks, break them up immediately. The goal is to have the chicken fully browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the 1 whole Onion and 1 whole Red Bell Pepper to the pot. Cook until they’re softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. The onion should be translucent, and the bell pepper should start to develop some char.

Stir in the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly become bitter.

Step 3: Add Spices and Simmer

Stir in the 2 tbsp Chili Powder, 1 tsp Ground Cumin, 1 tsp Paprika, and 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen – that’s when you know the spices are working their magic.

Add the 2 cups Canned Crushed Tomatoes and 1 cup Chicken Broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chilli should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.

Step 4: Finish with Kidney Beans and Seasoning

Stir in the 1 can Kidney Beans and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Season with 1 tsp Salt and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper to taste. If the chilli is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as diced onions, shredded cheese, or sour cream. This chilli is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be made ahead for even more convenience.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

Essential Cooking Vessel

A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is crucial for making this Ground Chicken Chilli Recipe. I prefer using a 6-quart Le Creuset Dutch oven as it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly. The size allows for browning the chicken and simmering the chilli without overcrowding. 🔥

Cutting Tools

You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife for chopping the onion and bell pepper. I recommend a 8-inch Wüsthof Classic Ikon knife for its balance and edge retention. A cutting board with a non-slip bottom is essential for safe prep work.

Measuring Equipment

Accurate measurements are key in this recipe. Use a digital kitchen scale to measure ingredients like ground chicken and spices. I swear by my Escali Primo digital scale for its precision and ease of use. For smaller measurements, have a set of stainless steel measuring spoons on hand.

Spatulas and Stirring Tools

A silicone spatula is perfect for scraping the bottom of the pot and folding ingredients together. I like using a long-handled silicone spatula from Rubbermaid as it provides good leverage and heat resistance. A wooden spoon is also handy for breaking up the ground chicken during browning.

Optional Equipment

While not necessary, an immersion blender can be useful if you prefer a thicker, more uniform chilli. Simply blend a portion of the chilli right in the pot. For serving, consider having small bowls and topping spoons on hand to let everyone customize their chilli.

Frequently Asked Questions