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Dinner / Amazing Ancho Chicken Chili for a Deliciously Cozy Night

Amazing Ancho Chicken Chili for a Deliciously Cozy Night

December 21, 2025 by Samantha RiveraDinner

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Ancho Chicken Chili is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug on a chilly night. Imagine the aroma of smoky ancho chiles mingling with tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Pumpkin coffee cake pairing This chili isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that makes you want to gather around the table, share stories, and maybe even wear stretchy pants because, trust me, you’ll want seconds! Cinnamon apple crumb cake recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.

I remember the first time I made Ancho Chicken Chili. It was a rainy day, and my friends were coming over for our regular game night. As I stirred the pot, visions of laughter and spilled nachos filled my head. The moment we took our first bite, it was as if the heavens opened up and sent us a flavor avalanche that had us singing praises. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or hosting a lively gathering, this chili is perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Ancho Chicken Chili

  • This amazing Ancho Chicken Chili offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Ancho Chicken Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Ancho Chicken Chili:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they bring out the depth in your chili.
  • Ancho Chiles: These dried chilies add smokiness and warmth; rehydrate them in hot water before use.
  • Onion: A medium yellow onion works well; it provides sweetness when sautéed.
  • Bell Peppers: Use red or green bell peppers for color and crunch; chop them into bite-sized pieces.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while keeping your chili flavorful.
  • Cumin: Ground cumin adds an earthy note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
  • Chili Powder: This spice boosts heat and depth—adjust to your preference!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season to taste as you go along.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Ancho Chicken Chili

How to Make Ancho Chicken Chili

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Ancho Chicken Chili:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Chop up your onions and bell peppers while your dried ancho chiles soak in hot water for about ten minutes until they’re pliable.

Step 2: Sauté Your Base

Heat a large pot over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. Add in your diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened—approximately five minutes should do the trick—don’t forget to stir occasionally so they don’t burn!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Once your base is fragrant (and you’re salivating), toss in minced garlic along with cumin and chili powder. Stir everything around for about a minute until those aromas hit you like a wave of comfort food bliss.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken

Add your chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink—about six to eight minutes should suffice. Make sure every piece is coated with those lovely spices.

Step 5: Blend in Broth and Chiles

Pour in your chicken broth and add those softened ancho chiles (chop them up first!). Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low simmer for at least twenty minutes to allow all those gorgeous flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Final Seasoning Touches

Taste your chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some lime juice or diced tomatoes for an extra zing!

Transfer to bowls and serve with toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream for an unforgettable finishing touch!

Now grab some tortilla chips or cornbread because this Ancho Chicken Chili deserves each spoonful savored!

You Must Know About Ancho Chicken Chili

  • This amazing Ancho Chicken Chili offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Ancho Chicken Chili Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then sauté your vegetables and spices while the chicken cooks. Finally, combine everything in a pot and let those flavors meld together beautifully.

Add Your Touch to Ancho Chicken Chili

Feel free to swap out black beans for kidney beans or add corn for sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for that extra zing!

Storing & Reheating Ancho Chicken Chili

Store your Ancho Chicken Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Ancho Chicken Chili

  • Use high-quality ancho chili powder for authentic flavor.
  • Don’t rush the simmering process; give it time to develop rich flavors.
  • Finally, taste as you go—adjust seasoning according to your preferences!

Sometimes, I whip up a batch of this Ancho Chicken Chili when friends come over, and their smiles say it all—nothing beats a warm bowl of chili shared with loved ones!

FAQs About Ancho Chicken Chili

What is Ancho Chicken Chili?

Ancho Chicken Chili is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with rich ancho chili peppers. The unique flavor of the ancho chiles adds a smoky sweetness, elevating traditional chili recipes. This dish typically includes beans, tomatoes, and spices, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Explore more delicious recipes It’s perfect for chilly days or gatherings with friends. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.

How do I make Ancho Chicken Chili?

To make Ancho Chicken Chili, start by soaking dried ancho chiles in hot water until softened. Remove the stems and seeds, then blend them into a smooth paste. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot, add diced chicken, and cook until browned. Stir in the blended ancho paste, canned tomatoes, beans, and spices. Simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like cheese or cilantro for added flavor.

Can I use other types of chili peppers in Ancho Chicken Chili?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of chili peppers in your Ancho Chicken Chili recipe. While anchos provide a unique flavor profile, feel free to mix in other varieties such as guajillo or pasilla for different heat levels and tastes. Just ensure that you balance their flavors so they complement the dish rather than overpower it.

What are some serving suggestions for Ancho Chicken Chili?

When serving Ancho Chicken Chili, consider offering toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or chopped green onions. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. Additionally, you can serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the chili.

Conclusion for Ancho Chicken Chili

In summary, Ancho Chicken Chili is a delicious and versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its smoky flavor from ancho chiles and hearty ingredients like chicken and beans, it’s sure to please everyone at your gathering. Delicious baked apple donuts Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option for parties, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Embrace the flavors of Ancho Chicken Chili and enjoy every bite!

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Ancho Chicken Chili

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Ancho Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly evenings or lively gatherings. This hearty recipe combines tender chicken with smoky ancho chiles, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices to create an explosion of flavor in every bite. Enjoy this warming chili by itself or served with toppings like shredded cheese and sour cream for an unforgettable meal.

  • Author: Samantha Rivera
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 pieces)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 3 dried ancho chiles, rehydrated
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Soak ancho chiles in hot water for about 10 minutes until softened.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder; stir for another minute.
  4. Incorporate the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink (6-8 minutes).
  5. Blend in chicken broth and chopped ancho chiles. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; simmer for at least 20 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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