Name: Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil; Yellow onion; Garlic; Chili powder; Ground cumin; Dried oregano; Paprika; Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; Chicken broth; Great northern beans; Rotisserie chicken; Cornstarch; Sour cream; Monterey jack cheese; Jalapeño pepper; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro

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Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili is one of those recipes that warms the soul and ignites the taste buds as the aroma dances through your kitchen. Imagine a thick, velvety chili bursting with flavors of smoky chipotle peppers, hearty shredded chicken, and creamy goodness that beckons you for another bowl. The vibrant colors of the chopped cilantro and the freshness of lime wedges not only elevate the dish aesthetically but also hint at the delightful medley of tastes waiting to be explored.

Table of Contents

Why This Is The Best Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili
Tips for Success
Serve It With
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Tips & Variations
Recipe FAQs
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili

This chili was born out of a chilly evening when a craving for comfort food hit hard. With a busy schedule, I needed something simple yet satisfying to enjoy while snuggled up on the couch. I recall the first time I made this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili; the moment that first spoonful hit my lips, I knew it was a winner. It’s become a go-to recipe for gatherings, game nights, and cozy nights in—honestly, there’s never a bad time for this dish!

Get ready to indulge in a bowl of Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili that brings friends and family together, one delicious spoonful at a time.

Why This Is The Best Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili is simply irresistible! It takes only about ten minutes of prep time and just 25 minutes of cooking, making it a breeze to whip up on a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend. The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the creaminess of the sour cream. You’ll love how appealing the final presentation is, with the garnish of cheese and fresh herbs making it perfect for serving guests or enjoying all on your own. Plus, you can easily adapt it for different dietary needs, making this chili versatile enough for everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Extra virgin olive oil: A flavor-packed oil that adds richness; can be substituted with avocado oil.
Yellow onion: Offers sweetness and depth; shallots are a good alternative.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Chili powder: This gives the chili its warm, spicy kick; you can experiment with smoked chili powder for extra depth.
Ground cumin: A must-have for an earthy, warm flavor; replaceable with ground coriander, though the taste will differ slightly.
Dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbaceousness; feel free to swap it with Italian seasoning for a distinct touch.
Paprika: Adds color and a slight sweetness; smoked paprika can intensify the smoky flavor.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: The secret ingredient that brings the heat; use chipotle powder if you prefer less texture.
Chicken broth: Provides the base of the chili; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
Great northern beans: These beans offer creaminess; white cannellini beans are a suitable substitute.
Rotisserie chicken: This saves time, yet you can use shredded cooked chicken breast or thighs if you prefer.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the chili for that creamy texture; all-purpose flour can be an alternative.
Sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt works well too for a healthier option.
Monterey jack cheese: Melts beautifully; feel free to substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for added spice.
Jalapeño pepper: Adds extra heat; omit if you prefer a milder chili.
Lime wedges: Brightens up the flavors; lemon wedges can be used in a pinch.
Fresh cilantro: A garnish that adds a pop of freshness; parsley can be used if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

How to Make Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili

Heat the Oil

In a large pot, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial as it will infuse your dish with savory flavor right from the start. Add 1 finely diced yellow onion, sautéing it until it turns translucent—about 4-5 minutes. The aroma of caramelizing onions will fill the air, creating that inviting atmosphere we all love. Toss in a teaspoon of minced garlic and stir for an additional minute, allowing it to become fragrant without burning.

Add the Spices

Next, sprinkle in 1 ½ teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir these aromatic spices into the onion and garlic mixture. Cooking the spices for a minute or two lets them release their essential oils, enhancing the depth of flavor in your chili. You’ll notice a wonderful scent wafting through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and building anticipation.

Incorporate the Chipotle Sauce and Broth

Now it’s time to amp up the flavor profile. Add 2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, giving just a gentle stir to combine everything. Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping the pot’s bottom to ensure all those flavorful bits are included. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; this step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Mix in the Beans and Chicken

After the broth reaches a boil, lower the heat and stir in a can of drained and rinsed great northern beans and 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. The beans provide a creamy texture while the chicken enhances the heartiness of your chili. Stir well, allowing the chili to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until thoroughly heated. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles gently, signaling to you it’s time for the next step.

Thicken it Up

To thicken your Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili, mix ¼ cup of cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the chili while stirring continually. This ensures a lump-free creaminess that will cling to each spoonful. Watch as the chili transforms, thickening to a luscious consistency in just a couple of minutes.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once thickened to your liking, stir in 1 ½ cups of room-temperature sour cream, letting it marry into the chili for that signature creaminess. To elevate it even more, fold in ½ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully into the warm chili, creating a velvety texture that’s utterly comforting.

Garnish and Serve

As your chili reaches its final state, prepare to serve. Ladle generous portions into bowls and crown each bowl with extra cheese, sliced jalapeño pepper, fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime on the side. The visual appeal of your Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili will surely be a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Tips for Success

Avoid burning the garlic by keeping a close eye on it—remember, it only needs a short sauté before adding other ingredients.
Ensure your sour cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling when mixing.
For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for an extra few minutes.
If you prefer spicier chili, add additional chipotle sauce or sprinkle in some spicy paprika.
Leftover chili thickens as it cools. If it becomes too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

Serve It With

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips for dipping or over a bed of warm rice for a more filling meal. A dollop of guacamole or some freshly baked cornbread can elevate your dinner even further. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a cool glass of iced tea or your favorite cerveza.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

After enjoying this delicious chili, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can happily sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before needing refrigeration. If you store it in the fridge, it will remain fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just portion it out in freezer-safe bags for convenience. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, and warm it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave. Remember, the texture may change slightly, so adding a bit of broth while reheating can help restore its creamy goodness.

Tips & Variations

For a new twist on this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili, try swapping in other proteins like ground turkey or even beans alone for a vegetarian version. You could also experiment with different beans like black beans for added flavor. If you’re craving a smokier experience, add some diced smoked sausage in with the onions. In the cooler months, try adding cubed sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and heartiness. Consider enhancing the chili’s flavors with herbs like thyme or fresh basil for a seasonal touch.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and add more beans or veggies such as zucchini or corn to maintain heartiness. Skip the chicken for a delightful plant-based dish.

How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness primarily comes from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. If you want less heat, use less sauce or opt for plain diced tomatoes instead. You can always adjust according to your personal heat preference!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, some say chili tastes even better after a day in the refrigerator due to flavors melding together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it covered in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you’re out of cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour for thickening. Just remember to add it earlier in the cooking process to cook out the raw flour taste, allowing it to thicken properly.

The beauty of this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili lies in its warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Gather your loved ones, share a hearty bowl, and let this dish create delicious memories around your dinner table. Enjoy the bold flavors and creaminess, and don’t hesitate to infuse your personal flair to make it your own!

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