Game Day Chili with a Spicy Chicken Twist

This hearty chili packs a flavorful punch with tender chicken and just the right amount of spice, perfect for keeping everyone warm during game day. It's easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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TIME25 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Game Day Chili with a Spicy Chicken Twist

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 4 large cloves garlic, minced 1 pound ground chicken 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained 1 tablespoon chipotle chile powder 2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes kosher salt to taste 1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems removed and leaves chopped

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating some oil in a big pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking them until they’re soft and smelling great—about 5 minutes. Turn the heat up to high and add the ground chicken. Keep stirring and breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink, which should take around 5 to 10 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the tomatoes, both kinds of beans, chili powder, brown sugar, cayenne, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Let everything simmer together until it’s hot and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Take the pot off the heat and mix in the fresh cilantro. Then, it’s ready to serve—dig in!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Brown the chicken well to develop a rich, savory base.
- Let the chili simmer slowly to allow all the flavors to meld together.

Why you’ll love it

This chili brings a bold mix of flavors that excite the taste buds. The spicy chicken adds a unique twist to a classic comfort dish. It’s perfect for sharing with friends during a game or casual gathering.

Serving ideas

Serve with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions to add creaminess and freshness. A side of sliced avocado or jalapeños can add an extra kick.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This chili also freezes well—divide portions into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the chicken tender.