One of my favorite lunches during the fall!!Chicken Chili!

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the white beans, diced green chilies, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and corn. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.
7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.

Tips for the Best Chicken Chili

• Customize Your Chili: Add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or corn, to make it your own. You can also swap the white beans for kidney beans or black beans.
• Make It Ahead: Chicken chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making a big batch for meal prep. It freezes well too!
• Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.

Conclusion

This Chicken Chili recipe is a staple in my fall lunch lineup, bringing warmth and flavor to my table. Its delightful combination of tender chicken, beans, and spices makes it a comforting meal perfect for cool autumn days. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with family and friends, this dish embodies the essence of fall comfort food. So grab your ingredients, whip up a pot, and savor every warm, delicious bite!