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This delicious and hearty red chicken chili with cream cheese is perfect for chilly days, watching sports with friends, or camping. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying meal option. Plus, it’s ready in just 45 minutes!
Jump to: ℹ️ Overview | 🛒 Ingredients | 📷 How To Make | 📹 Watch The Video | 👩🍳 Recipe Tips | 💡 Variations | 🥘 Serving Suggestions | 📝 Full Recipe Card | 🍽 More Similar Recipes
Indulge in this chicken chili with cream cheese, a delightful twist on the classic chili recipe. With a rich and creamy texture, this dish is quick to make and will surely become a household favorite.
This recipe combines traditional chili ingredients like chicken breasts, herbs, spices, beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. The addition of a cinnamon stick and cream cheese elevates the flavor profile, creating a deliciously unique dish.
High in protein, fiber, and nutrients, this chili offers a decadent touch with just a hint of cream cheese. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones, allowing everyone to customize their bowls with various toppings.
👩🍳 Explore more chili recipes here, or try out hearty chicken paprikash or creamy chicken orzo skillet dish for more delicious meal options.
What You’ll Need
Prepare this red chicken chili recipe with the following ingredients. Refer to the recipe card below for precise measurements.
- Chicken breasts – you can substitute with ground turkey or beef if desired.
- Vegetables: yellow bell pepper, onion, garlic, frozen corn, chopped green chili or jalapeños
- Canned items: diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans
- Spices: chili powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, oregano, cinnamon stick, salt, pepper
- Worcestershire sauce for added flavor
- Cream cheese – opt for reduced-fat or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative
- Toppings: corn chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, red onion, tomatoes, salsa
How To Make Chicken Chili With Cream Cheese
Follow the detailed instructions below for cooking this flavorful and creamy chicken chili.
- Begin by browning seasoned chicken breasts in a pot. Set aside once cooked. Sauté onion and bell pepper, then add chilis, garlic, herbs, spices, and tomatoes. Mix in beans, corn, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer with chicken and a cinnamon stick for 30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken, blend the sauce slightly, then return the chicken and add cream cheese. Adjust seasoning and serve garnished with cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and lime juice.
Slow Cooker Version
For a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker. Brown the chicken, combine all ingredients except cream cheese, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in cream cheese during the final 30 minutes.
Watch The Video
Recipe Tips
- Adjust spice levels to taste with more or less jalapeños and chili powder.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, use a potato masher or briefly process some chili in a blender for desired consistency.
- Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for quick meals.
- Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Experiment with toppings like avocado, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.
Variations
Keep things interesting with these creative variations of the chicken chili recipe:
- Spicy chicken chili: Add more chilis or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- White chicken chili: Swap tomatoes for chicken broth and use white beans.
- Vegetarian chili: Skip chicken and add more beans or veggies.
- Smoky chili: Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your chicken chili experience with these serving ideas:
Pair with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Try chili-topped baked potatoes or serve with crusty bread. Add toppings like cheese, cilantro, sour cream, avocado, and salsa for extra flavor.
Balance the meal with a salad, grilled veggies, or cheese quesadillas. Get creative with chili tacos, burritos, or stuffed bell peppers. Host a chili bar for customized bowls.
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