chicken and chorizo chili

chicken and chorizo chili

If you’re ready to warm up your taste buds with something delicious, than you’re in for a treat! My Chicken and Chorizo chili is a perfect blend of spicy, hearty, and comforting flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab a spoon, and let’s dive into a bowl of chili that’s sure to brighten your day!

Cook Time: 50
Prep Time: 15
Yields: 8
Calories: 557

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken and Chorizo Chili

Making Chicken and Chorizo Chili is straightforward, thanks to a few simple ingredients that pack in flavor and heartiness. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil – This will help sauté the ingredients and add a nice richness.
  • 12 ounces chorizo sausage, chopped – Choose your favorite brand; the spicy, smoky flavor is key to this dish.
  • 2 pounds ground chicken – Lean and versatile, this is the base of our chili.
  • ¼ cup chili powder – This adds warmth and depth; you can adjust it to your heat preference.
  • 1½ tablespoons ground cumin – For that earthy, warm flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained – Canned beans make this recipe super convenient and hearty.
  • 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained – I like to mix it up with different beans for texture.
  • 1 onion, chopped – A classic base for flavor; onions provide sweetness when sautéed.
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped – This adds a pop of color and sweetness to the chili.
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped – Garlic is a must for that aromatic kick.
  • 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle beer – Pick a light lager or pilsner; it enhances the flavor wonderfully.
  • 1 (28-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juice – This brings acidity and freshness to the chili.
  • 3 cups chicken stock – Adding depth and richness to the overall flavor.
  • 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste – To thicken the chili and intensify the tomato flavor.
  • Salt to taste – Adjust as necessary to bring all the flavors together.

These ingredients work together to create a comforting bowl of chili that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to swap out any of the beans or adjust the spices to fit your taste preferences!

Step-by-Step Instructions to make Chicken and Chorizo Chili

Ready to dive into cooking? Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chicken and Chorizo Chili that your family will love.

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding anything!
  1. Cook the Chorizo: Add the chopped chorizo to the pot. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes until it’s heated through. The oil should be infused with that amazing chorizo flavor.
  1. Brown the Chicken: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chorizo to a bowl and set it aside. In the same pot, add 2 pounds of ground chicken. Cook and stir for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it apart until it’s nicely browned.
  1. Spice It Up: Season the chicken with ¼ cup of chili powder and 1½ tablespoons of ground cumin. Stir to coat the meat evenly with those spices.
  1. Add the Veggies: Now it’s time to mix in the black beans, white beans, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook everything together until the onion begins to soften,about 5 to 6 minutes.
  1. Incorporate the Other Ingredients: Pour in the beer, bringing it to a simmer. Then, add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  1. Simmer the Chili: Bring the pot to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes to let all those flavors meld beautifully.

And there you have it! A savory Chicken and Chorizo Chili that’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this hearty dish on a chilly evening or anytime you crave comfort food.

 chicken and chorizo chili

Serving and Storage tips for Chicken and Chorizo Chili

Once your Chicken and Chorizo Chili is ready, it’s time to dig in! This hearty dish is perfect for serving during gatherings or a cozy night in. Here’s how to enjoy it and keep any leftovers fresh:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Portion Sizes: This recipe yields about 8 servings. A generous helping of chili in a bowl is satisfying on its own, but you can also serve it with rice or cornbread for a complete meal.
  • Toppings to Elevate Your Chili: Consider adding fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese. A squeeze of lime can brighten the flavors, too.
  • Pair with Beverages: A light beer or a fruity soda pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the chili.

Storage Instructions:

  • Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, let them cool wholly before transferring to an airtight container. Chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, this chili freezes well! Pour cooled chili into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Reheating: Chili frequently enough tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld! When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it from getting too thick.

With these handy serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken and Chorizo Chili fresh and delicious, whether you’re diving in right away or saving it for later!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect Chicken and Chorizo Chili

Cooking can sometimes come with its challenges! Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips to make your Chicken and Chorizo Chili turn out just right.

Ingredient Substitutions:

  • Chorizo Alternatives: If you can’t find chorizo, feel free to use other types of sausage, like Italian sausage, for a different flavor. Just be mindful of the spice level.
  • Beans: While I love the combination of black and white beans, you can replace them with pinto beans or even kidney beans if that’s what you have on hand.

Adjusting Spice Levels:

  • Mild or spicy: The ¼ cup of chili powder can be adjusted based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder chili, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more.For extra heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Common Issues:

  • Too Thick: If your chili turns out thicker than you’d like, add a little extra chicken stock or water while heating to reach your desired consistency.
  • Not Enough Flavor: If it tastes bland, a pinch of salt or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor. Always taste as you go!

Cooking Tips:

  • Sautéing: Sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened before adding the meat for a richer flavor base.
  • simmer Time: Don’t rush the simmering step! Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors really meld together.

These tips will help you perfect your Chicken and Chorizo Chili each time you make it.Happy cooking!