When a chill sets in the air, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili to warm you up from the inside out. That’s exactly what I found myself craving one evening, succumbing to the comforting allure of rich flavors and spices in my kitchen. But I didn’t want just any chili—I craved something with a kick, an exciting twist that would keep my taste buds dancing. Enter Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, a dish that takes the renowned boldness of Nashville hot chicken and transforms it into a satisfying chili that’s sure to impress.
As I gathered my ingredients, I was reminded that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This recipe combines ground chicken with zesty Nashville hot seasoning and wholesome beans, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. With minimal prep and cook time, this chili is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a game-day gathering with friends. So, let’s dive in and turn up the heat with this delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that will soon become a staple in your home!
Why You'll Love This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili
- This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 45 minutes.
- The bold and zesty flavors will excite your taste buds and leave you craving more with every spoonful.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite beans or toppings to suit any taste.
- Plus, this dish is visually appealing with vibrant colors from the beans and tomatoes, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
• Ground chicken – a lean protein that makes the chili hearty without being heavy.
• Nashville hot chicken seasoning – adds that signature spicy kick that makes this chili unforgettable.
• Onion – enhances the flavor base with its sweetness; consider yellow or sweet onions for a milder taste.
• Garlic – packed with flavor; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Diced tomatoes – bring acidity and a juicy texture; use fire-roasted for an extra layer of flavor.
• Kidney beans – add a creamy texture; feel free to substitute with pinto beans for a different taste.
• Black beans – offer earthy richness; they also boost the protein content of your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili.
• Chicken broth – the foundation of your chili; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
• Olive oil – used for sautéing; you can replace it with any neutral oil you prefer.
• Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust according to your preference.
How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken Chili
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This sets the stage for the flavors to meld beautifully. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1-2 minutes; you’ll want it shimmering but not smoking.
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Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring until the onion turns translucent and the kitchen fills with a delightful aroma.
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Add ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir it occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until there are no pink bits left. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks golden and smells savory.
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Stir in Nashville hot chicken seasoning. Mix it well with the chicken, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly. Feel free to add more if you like it extra spicy!
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Combine diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until combined, and watch as the colors come to life. This is where your chili gets rich and delicious!
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Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. Let the flavors deepen as the chili bubbles gently. Keep an eye on it and give it a stir now and then to prevent sticking.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. A final touch! Start with a pinch of each, then taste before adjusting. You’re the chef—make it perfect for your palate!
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the chili in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave a little space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the chili has thickened too much.
Airtight Storage: Make sure to tightly seal your containers or bags to avoid freezer burn, which can affect the flavors and texture.
Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Variations
Feel free to explore different twists with your chili, enhancing flavors and adapting to your palate!
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra layer of heat. Their vibrant flavor will elevate the dish.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground chicken with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils for a hearty, plant-based chili that everyone will enjoy.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving to add a cool, creamy contrast to the heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a melty finish that melds beautifully with the spicy chili.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh cilantro or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness and color. The herbs will brighten the whole dish!
- Fruity Flare: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple during the last few minutes of simmering for a sweet and tangy contrast with the spices.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of regular hot chicken seasoning to introduce a wonderful smoky depth.
- Additional Veggies: Mix in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added texture and flavor, making your chili even more colorful and nutritious.
Let your creativity shine in every bowl of Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, and make it your own!
What to Serve with Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
When craving a nourishing meal, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili experience.
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Cornbread Muffins: Their sweet, buttery texture balances the spiciness of the chili and adds a comforting touch to your bowl. Enjoy them warm, slathered in butter for the ultimate pairing.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, fresh side brings a cooling contrast to the heat of the chili, providing a delightful crunch that complements the dish perfectly. A tangy vinaigrette will really brighten your meal!
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Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkling grated sharp cheddar on top adds creaminess and a flavorful richness that melts beautifully in the warm chili. It’s a classic topping that makes every bite indulgent!
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Avocado Slices: Creamy, buttery avocado adds a luxurious texture and cools down the heat without overpowering the bold flavors of the chili. It’s a refreshing touch that many love.
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Fried Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips are perfect for dipping, bringing a delightful crunch to every bite of chili. They can also be crumbled on top for a fun twist!
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavors of cilantro and lime create a fresh complement to the spiciness of the chili, adding aromatic notes and a touch of moisture. It’s a flavorful carrier that soaks up the chili beautifully.
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Sweet Tea: A cold glass of sweet tea balances the heat while providing a soothing refreshment. The sweetness complements the chili without getting lost in the spiciness.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish with a sweet note! These classic cookies offer a comforting sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the chili’s heat and savory notes. Consider a warm, gooey cookie for a delightful homemade dessert.
Make Ahead Options
Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chili base—which includes sautéing the onions, garlic, and ground chicken, followed by adding the seasoning, beans, and tomatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. To maintain quality, be sure to store it without adding the final salt and pepper; this way, you can season it just before serving to keep the flavors fresh. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the chili on the stove over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This chili will still taste just as delicious and will save you precious time on busy weeknights!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, ensure the olive oil is sufficiently heated before adding the onions and garlic to prevent them from stewing instead of sautéing.
- When browning the ground chicken, break it up well to ensure even cooking and avoid any clumps.
- Consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a richer flavor profile in your chili.
- Let the chili simmer gently to allow the flavors to blend beautifully, and taste before adding extra seasoning for optimal flavor balance.
Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground chicken should I use for Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
I recommend using lean ground chicken for this recipe, as it keeps the chili hearty without being too heavy. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can opt for regular ground chicken instead.
How long can I store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Chili in the fridge?
You can safely store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Chili in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion your chili into freezer bags or airtight containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen. It will keep well for up to 3 months!
What should I do if my chili is too thick after freezing?
No worries! If your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili has thickened after freezing, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Can I add other beans or vegetables to this recipe?
Very! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite beans or even add diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly for any added vegetables.
Is this chili suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions?
While this dish is generally gluten-free (check your seasoning), if you have specific allergies or dietary needs, always double-check the ingredients, especially the seasoning mix. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground chicken with plant-based meat alternatives or additional beans and veggies!
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground chicken a lean protein that makes the chili hearty without being heavy.
- 2 tablespoons Nashville hot chicken seasoning adds that signature spicy kick.
- 1 medium Onion consider yellow or sweet onions for milder taste.
- 2 cloves Garlic fresh garlic is best.
- 1 can Diced tomatoes use fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- 1 can Kidney beans add a creamy texture.
- 1 can Black beans offer earthy richness and boost protein.
- 4 cups Chicken broth opt for low-sodium.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil used for sautéing.
- to taste Salt essential for enhancing flavor.
- to taste Pepper adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until shimmering.
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart.
- Stir in Nashville hot chicken seasoning and mix well.
- Combine 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.
