Chicken and Black Bean Chili from Grandma

This hearty chili combines tender chicken with rich black beans for a comforting and flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug from Grandma. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness.

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TIME30 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Chicken and Black Bean Chili from Grandma

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion, chopped 3 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes 2 (5 ounce) cans chicken, drained 2 (1.25 ounce) packages chili seasoning mix 1 teaspoon ground cumin salt and ground black pepper to taste

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by warming the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and fragrant. Next, add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken, chili seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Break up any large chunks of chicken with your spoon so it shreds nicely as it cooks. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring now and then, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Simmer the chili slowly to let the flavors deepen.
- Add a squeeze of lime or a handful of fresh cilantro before serving for a fresh finish.

Why you’ll love it

This chili is warm and comforting with a rich blend of flavors. The combination of tender chicken and hearty black beans makes it both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a perfect dish for cozy family meals or gatherings.

Serving ideas

Serve with warm cornbread or over a bed of steamed rice. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top adds creaminess. Pair it with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This chili also freezes well—just cool completely before freezing in portion-sized containers. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.