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Healthy Cheddar Chicken Chili

AT

By

Ago Tanfossi

Chef and recipe curator at Global Cucina

Published on March 6, 2026

Updated on April 14, 2026

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Healthy cheddar chicken chili made in one pot with chipotle, beans, and veggies. Cozy, smoky, and perfect for cold nights!

This healthy cheddar chicken chili is made in one pot with chipotle, beans, and veggies. Perfectly cozy and smoky, ideal for chilly evenings.

45 min
6 servings
Capolavoro Score 4.7/5 · 12 votes
Healthy Cheddar Chicken Chili

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1.5 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

Veggies

  • 2 yellow onion
  • 1 cup Carrot
  • 1 cup Celery
  • 1 red pepper chopped
  • 1 poblano pepper chopped

Base

  • 2 cans Tomatoes
  • green chilies
  • 1 can Tomato Paste

Spices

  • 1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Liquid

  • 3 1/2 cup broth

Beans

  • 1 can red kidney beans

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar

Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Cilantro

Equipment

  • Large Pot Or Dutch Oven

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add 2 chopped yellow onions, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery, 1 red pepper, and 1 poblano pepper. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in 2 cans Ro-Tel tomatoes, 1 can tomato paste, 1 tablespoon chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Mix well.

  4. 4

    Pour in 3-4 cups of broth and add 1 can kidney beans or black beans (with liquid). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar and let it melt into the chili. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with cilantro, avocado, and green onions.

Ago's Notes

  • Top with cilantro, avocado, and green onions for added freshness.
  • Use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy finish.
  • Enjoy this cozy, smoky chili on cold nights.

As the flavors meld together during simmering, each ingredient brings its unique flavor to this comforting bowl of chili. This recipe captures the essence of comfort cooking, with a twist of care and joy in every bite.

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