Name: Chicken Chili Verde
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion; 6 cloves garlic; 4 poblano peppers; 1-2 jalapeno peppers; 1 pound tomatillos; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 bay leaf; 2 1/2 pounds boneless chicken; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

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Chicken Chili Verde has a special place in my heart, often reminding me of cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. I vividly recall the first time I tasted this delectable dish at a friend’s home during a chilly evening. The aroma of simmering spices and roasted peppers filled the air, making it impossible to resist. As we gathered around the table, each spoonful was a burst of flavor, with the heat of the peppers balanced perfectly by the richness of the chicken and broth. It quickly became a staple in my own cooking. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy and comfort to your table as it has to mine. Perfect for any season, Chicken Chili Verde is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
38 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan

What Makes This Chicken Chili Verde Special

Flavorful and Satisfying

One of the standout features of Chicken Chili Verde is its incredible depth of flavor. The combination of roasted tomatillos and vibrant poblano peppers creates a delicious base that’s both tangy and rich. Each ingredient complements the others, making every spoonful a delight.

Versatile for Any Occasion

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Chili Verde fits the bill. It pairs beautifully with various sides, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Healthful Ingredients

The ingredients in Chicken Chili Verde are not only flavorful but also nutritious. With plenty of vegetables, lean protein from the chicken, and wholesome seasonings, you can feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones.

Easy to Prepare

Don’t let the richness of flavor fool you; Chicken Chili Verde is simple to make. With just a few steps, you can create a hearty dish without spending all day in the kitchen. The straightforward method makes it accessible even for novice cooks.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another thing I love about this recipe is how well it holds up for leftovers. Chicken Chili Verde tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Chili Verde

Every ingredient in Chicken Chili Verde plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor profile we all love. The combination of fresh vegetables and spices not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall healthfulness of the dish. Here are the essential ingredients and why they work so well together.

2 tablespoons olive oil: This serves as the cooking base, providing a rich flavor and helping to sauté the vegetables.
1 large onion: Adds sweetness and depth, forming the backbone of the chili’s flavor.
6 cloves garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust aroma and essential depth.
4 poblano peppers: These peppers contribute a mild heat and unique flavor that is foundational to the dish.
1-2 jalapeno peppers: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, these add an extra kick!
1 pound tomatillos: They are the star of the show, offering a tangy freshness that brightens the chili.
1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 tablespoon ground coriander: This spice complements the cumin beautifully, adding a hint of citrus.
1 tablespoon dried oregano: Provides a layer of herbal flavor that ties everything together.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1 bay leaf: Adds an aromatic depth while simmering.
2 1/2 pounds boneless chicken: The main protein, which becomes tender and flavorful when cooked.
4 cups chicken broth: This forms the chili base, enriching the flavors and creating a hearty texture.
1/2 cup chopped cilantro: Used as a garnish, it adds freshness and color.
Possible garnishes: cilantro, avocado, lime: These add brightness and a fresh finish when served.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Chili Verde

Making Chicken Chili Verde is an enjoyable process that allows you to really engage with the ingredients. I love taking my time to appreciate the vibrant colors and aromas that fill my kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish!

Start by preparing the tomatillos. Peel and wash them thoroughly to remove any stickiness. Then, cut the tomatillos into quarters. This will help them cook down nicely and release their juices during the simmering process.
Next, set a large 6-quart stock pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil to the pot. Once the oil begins to shimmer, it’s time to add the onions and garlic along with the chopped poblano and jalapeno peppers. Sauté the mixture for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to become translucent and the peppers to soften, releasing their flavors into the oil.
Now, stir in the prepared tomatillos. Allow them to cook for a minute or two so they can begin to soften. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the chili’s flavor.
After that, add the whole raw chicken pieces to the pot. Don’t worry about cutting them; they’ll cook down nicely. Then, sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, and salt. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is submerged and the spices are evenly distributed. The broth will help meld the flavors.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the largest piece of chicken to cook through fully. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use tongs to carefully remove the pieces from the pot and place them on a cutting board. It’s important to let them cool slightly before shredding. You want to ensure they’re tender and can be easily pulled apart.
Remove the bay leaf from the pot, as it’s no longer needed. Now, use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables and broth base. You don’t need to make it completely smooth; having some texture adds charm. The blended mixture will create a velvety backdrop for the shredded chicken.
Meanwhile, take two forks and shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once shredded, stir the chicken back into the chili, allowing it to absorb that beautiful flavor from the broth.
Finally, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that elevates the dish.
Serve your Chicken Chili Verde warm, and don’t forget to offer lime wedges and sliced avocado on the side for an extra touch. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Chicken Selection: Using boneless thighs versus breasts can alter the flavor and texture. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
Vegetable Roasting: Roasting the tomatillos and peppers beforehand can deepen their flavors, adding a slight char that enhances the chili.
Spiciness Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeno peppers. Removing the seeds will also reduce spiciness.
Consistency Preference: For a thicker chili, puree less of the mixture, allowing more chunks of vegetables to remain.

Customization Ideas

Customizing Chicken Chili Verde can make it even more delightful and personal to your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire you.

Flavor Variations: Add a splash of lime juice for brightness or a tablespoon of honey for a hint of sweetness.
Garnish Options: Try adding diced red onions, sour cream, or crumbled cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
Serving Style: Serve Chicken Chili Verde over rice or with warm tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Heat Adjustments: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding some diced serrano peppers for an extra layer of heat.
Leftover Magic: Transform leftover chili into a delicious burrito filling or nacho topping for a creative meal.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Chili Verde

Knowing how to serve Chicken Chili Verde enhances the experience. Here are some fantastic pairings to consider.

Warm Tortillas: Serve with homemade or store-bought tortillas for a delightful, handheld meal.
Rice: A side of fluffy rice complements the chili perfectly, soaking up the delicious broth.
Fresh Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chili.
Sweet Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread makes for a comforting and satisfying pairing.
Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any festive occasion, especially during cooler months.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for later enjoyment.

FAQ

When serving Chicken Chili Verde, there are many delicious options to complement its rich flavors. Warm tortillas are a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up the chili and enjoy every bite. Fluffy rice also pairs beautifully, soaking up the savory broth. For a lighter option, a simple green salad adds a refreshing touch. Don’t forget about sweet cornbread; it’s a comforting side that balances the heat of the chili perfectly. Feel free to get creative with your pairings!

Absolutely! Chicken Chili Verde is a fantastic dish to make ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply prepare the chili, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, keeping it in a sealed bag for up to three months. Just be sure to reheat it gently to preserve the flavors!

If you prefer a milder chili, you can easily adjust the spiciness of Chicken Chili Verde. Start by reducing the number of jalapeno peppers you use, or remove the seeds and membranes before adding them to the dish, as this is where the heat is concentrated. You can also use a small amount of bell pepper in place of jalapeños for a sweet flavor without the heat. If you want to kick it up a notch, consider adding diced serrano peppers for an extra layer of spice!

Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian version of Chicken Chili Verde! Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, or use beans for added protein. You can also incorporate lentils for a filling option. To maintain the chili’s rich flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors of the dish without sacrificing taste!

Conclusion

Chicken Chili Verde is a special dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its simplicity and robust taste, Chicken Chili Verde will leave your family asking for seconds. Enjoy every delicious bite!