Cozy Chicken Chili

When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of chili. This easy chicken chili is hearty, comforting, and full of those smoky, savory flavors that make chilly evenings feel extra cozy.

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon olive oil

* 1 medium onion, diced

* 1 red bell pepper, diced

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1-pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces

* 2 teaspoons chili powder

* 1 teaspoon ground cumin

* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

* 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

* 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

* 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained

* 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

* 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

* 2 cups chicken broth

* Juice of 1 lime

* Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the base – In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened, about 4–5 minutes.

2. Add the chicken – Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until lightly golden on the outside.

3. Season it up – Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Let the spices toast for about 1 minute to deepen their flavor.

4. Simmer & cozy up – Add diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld into a rich, comforting chili.

5. Brighten before serving – Stir in the lime juice to balance all the hearty flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Serve warm – Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and crunchy tortilla chips for the ultimate cozy bite.