Rotisserie Chicken Chili Recipe – Easy & Hearty Dinner
I’ve always loved hearty, filling meals, but nothing comes close to the comfort of this rotisserie chicken chili. The first time I made it, I was rushing to put dinner on the table, and a leftover rotisserie chicken saved the day.
With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a subtle kick from green chilies, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Also, try this Creamy Oyster Mushroom Pasta Recipe for a hearty meal.
Ingredients for Rotisserie Chicken Chili Recipe
- 2-3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (about half a chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (4 oz each) diced green chilies
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cans (14 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 32 oz low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 lime, juiced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Toppings for serving (e.g., avocado slices, tortilla chips, lime wedges)
Note: This recipe serves 6.
Variations to Try
This rotisserie chicken chili is versatile and can be easily customized. Here are some fun variations to explore:
- Dairy-Free: Keep the recipe as is or add a dollop of dairy-free sour cream as a topping.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with diced sweet potatoes or extra beans.
- Extra Heat: Add jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper for more spice.
- Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium broth and skip adding extra salt in the recipe.
Explore more dinner recipes.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large Pot: To cook the chili.
- Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Knife: Essential for dicing onions and garlic.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the chili as it cooks.
- Ladle: For serving the chili into bowls.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Chili?
Making this chili is a breeze! With just a few steps, you’ll have a steaming bowl of deliciousness on the table.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken into smaller pieces. You can use your hands, two forks, or even a mixer to save time. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and canned green chilies (including their liquid). Cook for about 3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Spices
Stir in the cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toasting the spices for a minute helps release their flavors, giving your chili a rich, aromatic base.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the chicken broth, water, and drained white beans into the pot. Then, add the shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Stir in the juice of one lime and the freshly chopped cilantro. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. The lime adds a zesty brightness, while the cilantro gives it a burst of freshness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Whether you go for creamy avocado slices, crispy tortilla chips, or a generous squeeze of lime, each topping enhances the dish’s flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe has so many perks, and here are just a few reasons to love it:
- It’s ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- A great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Packed with protein and fiber from white beans and chicken.
- Completely customizable with toppings and spices.
- It’s hearty and comforting without being heavy.
How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Chili?
When it comes to serving, you can keep it simple or load your chili with delicious garnishes. Here are some ideas:
- Top with thinly sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream.
- Add crunch with tortilla chips or crackers on the side.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese or a handful of chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Pair with warm cornbread for an unbeatable combo.
- Incorporate a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like heat.
- Pair it with Thai Basil Beef Rolls.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this chili provides nutritious goodness. Approximate values include:
- Calories: 341
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 7g
Make Ahead and Storage
This chili is a perfect make-ahead meal. I love preparing extra for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Store leftover chili in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you need to store it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers.
It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, thaw the chili in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips for Making the Recipe
With a few handy tricks, you can elevate this chili to the next level:
- Shred the rotisserie chicken while it’s still warm; it’s much easier to handle.
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the white beans with a fork before adding them to the chili.
- Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the best flavor.
- If you’re short on time, pre-chopped onions and garlic are great shortcuts.
- Plan toppings ahead to make serving quick and fun for the whole family.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients (except lime juice, cilantro, and toppings) into the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro before serving. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a hearty chili with minimal effort.
What Can I Serve with Rotisserie Chicken Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad. For something more filling, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. The chili’s flavors also shine with a side of roasted vegetables or baked sweet potatoes.
This rotisserie chicken chili will quickly become your go-to recipe for cozy, delicious meals. It’s versatile, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful!
Rotisserie Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken into smaller pieces. You can use your hands, two forks, or even a mixer to save time. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and canned green chilies (including their liquid). Cook for about 3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Stir in the cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toasting the spices for a minute helps release their flavors, giving your chili a rich, aromatic base.
- Pour the chicken broth, water, and drained white beans into the pot. Then, add the shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Stir in the juice of one lime and the freshly chopped cilantro. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. The lime adds a zesty brightness, while the cilantro gives it a burst of freshness.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Whether you go for creamy avocado slices, crispy tortilla chips, or a generous squeeze of lime, each topping enhances the dish’s flavor.