Oh my goodness, have you ever tried Nashville Hot Chicken Chili? It’s a flavor bomb that brings together the spicy, crispy goodness of Nashville hot chicken and the hearty warmth of traditional chili. I remember the first time I made it—I was craving something bold and comforting, and this dish completely blew me away! The kick from the Nashville hot chicken seasoning combined with the richness of the ground chicken makes every bite a delightful adventure. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up; you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar in no time. Trust me, once you try this chili, it’ll become a regular on your dinner table. With simple ingredients and a straightforward stovetop method, you’ll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills while warming their hearts (and bellies) with every spoonful!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Nashville Hot Chicken Chili absolutely unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground chicken: This is the star of the show! It adds a lovely texture and is a healthier alternative to beef.
- 1 tablespoon Nashville hot chicken seasoning: This seasoning is what gives the chili its signature spicy kick—feel free to adjust based on your heat preference!
- 1 onion, diced: A classic base for chili, it adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic cooking away in the kitchen?
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: These add juiciness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: For that hearty texture and protein boost.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: They bring a lovely color contrast and additional fiber.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the chili.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from whipping up a bowl of spicy goodness that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Nashville Hot Chicken Chili
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the onions!
- Sauté the aromatics: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Seriously, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Brown the chicken: Next, add the ground chicken to the pot. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. We want that savory flavor to develop!
- Season it up: Stir in the Nashville hot chicken seasoning. This is where the magic happens! Cook for another minute to let those spices toast a bit.
- Add the good stuff: Now, it’s time to mix in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything well and bring it to a simmer.
- Let it simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
- Final seasoning: Before serving, taste your chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the spice level if you’re feeling adventurous!
And just like that, you’ve whipped up a delicious pot of Nashville Hot Chicken Chili! The hardest part is waiting for it to cool enough to dig in. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is a game-changer for your dinner rotation, and here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in about 45 minutes!
- Bold Flavors: The unique combination of Nashville hot chicken seasoning and savory ingredients creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean ground chicken, beans, and tomatoes, this chili is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile: Perfect for cozy dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep—this chili fits any occasion!
- Comfort Food: It’s warm, filling, and gives you that cozy feeling that only a good bowl of chili can provide.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be hard to go back to regular chili!
Tips for Success
To make your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili even more fantastic, here are my top tips for success:
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the Nashville hot chicken seasoning and add more to taste as it cooks. You can always add more, but it’s tough to fix if it’s too spicy!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavor foundation that makes your chili rich and aromatic.
- Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix up the beans! Black beans and kidney beans work well, but you can also add pinto beans or even chickpeas for a twist.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A dollop of sour cream or avocado on top can add a creamy contrast to the spice!
- Make it Ahead: This chili stores wonderfully! Make it a day in advance to let the flavors deepen; just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
With these tips, you’re guaranteed to make a chili that’s not just good, but absolutely unforgettable!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try with your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili! Here are a few ideas to ignite your creativity:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground chicken for lentils or quinoa for a hearty, meatless version that’s still packed with protein.
- Extra Veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added texture and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies!
- Different Beans: Experiment with different types of beans like cannellini or chickpeas for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick if you love heat!
- Serving Styles: Serve the chili over baked potatoes or in taco shells for a fun twist. It’s a delightful way to change up your dinner routine!
With these variations, you can keep your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili fresh and exciting every time you make it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Chili? Yes, please! Storing it properly helps you enjoy that deliciousness for days. Once the chili has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for lunch or a quick dinner later in the week.
When it comes to reheating, there are a couple of methods to get it back to its warm, comforting state. You can gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re short on time, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Just be careful; it can get hot quickly! Enjoy it all over again, and watch your taste buds dance with joy!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk nutrition! This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also packed with good-for-you ingredients. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 10g
These values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so feel free to adjust for your specific choices. Enjoy a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
FAQs
Got questions about this Nashville Hot Chicken Chili? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions and my answers:
Can I use regular chicken instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even diced chicken breast. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so it’s cooked through.
How can I make this chili spicier?
If you’re craving more heat, try adding extra Nashville hot chicken seasoning or toss in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.
Can I freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
Yes! This chili freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for scooping. You can also top it with sour cream or avocado for a creamy contrast!
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes! With simple, gluten-free ingredients, this Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is a perfect option for those avoiding gluten. Just double-check any packaged goods, like chicken broth, to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, there are some delicious options that can really elevate the meal! First up, a side of warm, buttery cornbread is simply perfect for soaking up all that flavorful chili goodness. You can even jazz it up with jalapeños or cheese for an extra kick!
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve the chili over a fluffy bed of rice—white, brown, or even cilantro-lime rice for a fresh twist. It adds a nice contrast and makes the dish even more filling. Don’t forget about toppings! A dollop of creamy sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese can balance out the heat beautifully. And for a refreshing crunch, some sliced avocado or a simple green salad on the side can provide that perfect contrast. Trust me, these pairings will take your chili experience to a whole new level!
Print
Nashville Hot Chicken Chili: 5 Bold Flavors to Love
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili combines the flavors of spicy fried chicken with hearty chili ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon Nashville hot chicken seasoning
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in Nashville hot chicken seasoning.
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Serve with cornbread or over rice.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less seasoning.
- This chili can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, spicy chili, chicken chili