Cozy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili Recipe for Cold Days

When the chilly winds blow and the leaves start to change, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili to wrap your taste buds in a cozy blanket. Imagine thick, creamy chili bursting with flavors that dance on your palate—smoky bacon, zesty jalapenos, and tender chicken all mingling together in a delightful harmony. Thumbprint Appetizers with Pepper Jelly Baked Chicken Chimichangas Recipe As you scoop that first mouthful, the cheesy goodness melts away your worries faster than a snowflake on a hot stove.

This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration of every autumn gathering and football Sunday you’ve ever experienced. Picture this: you’re surrounded by friends and family, laughter fills the room, and someone hollers, “Who made this amazing chili?” That’s when you proudly raise your hand (or spoon) and bask in the glory of being the culinary hero of the day. Trust me; this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen rock star!

I remember my first attempt at making this chili—the look on my friends’ faces when they took their first bites was priceless. They practically begged for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best for tenderness; adjust based on your hungry crowd.

• Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos add authentic heat; choose firm ones for maximum flavor.

• Cream Cheese: This creamy delight creates that luscious texture we crave; don’t skip it!

• Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon! Use thick-cut for extra crunch.

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; homemade is always best if you have it.

• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and pepper jack will elevate your chili experience! Chili Cheese Dip for Gatherings.

• Onion and Garlic: Sautéed together, they create an aromatic base that’s hard to resist.

• Spices (Cumin and Chili Powder): These spices bring depth; don’t be shy about experimenting with amounts!

• Cilantro (optional): Use fresh cilantro as a garnish for a pop of color and flavor.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Bacon First: In a large pot over medium heat, cook 6-8 slices of chopped bacon until crispy. This gives the chili its smoky foundation.

Sauté Vegetables: Remove bacon but keep some grease in the pot! Add one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken & Jalapenos: Toss in your cubed chicken breasts along with 2-3 chopped jalapenos. Cook until chicken is no longer pink—around 7 minutes should do!

Create the Base: Stir in 8 oz of cream cheese until melted evenly throughout. Then pour in 4 cups of chicken broth along with cumin and chili powder to taste.

Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 30 minutes so those flavors can mingle beautifully.

Add Cheese & Final Touches: Stir in shredded cheese until melty goodness occurs! Taste test it now; adjust seasoning if necessary—don’t forget fresh cilantro if using.

Now you have an irresistible bowl of Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili ready to impress everyone around you! Serve it hot with tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping—trust me; no one can resist seconds! Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavors, then add the spices while simmering the chili for optimal taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out jalapenos for other peppers or add beans for extra texture and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat to keep it creamy.

Sometimes I whip up this chili when friends visit, and their enthusiastic compliments always make my heart swell with joy.

FAQ

Can I make Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili spicier?

For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe recipe.

Absolutely! Add more jalapenos or use hotter varieties like serranos.

Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?

Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I freeze Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili?

Certainly! Freeze it in portions and reheat when you’re ready for comfort food.

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Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili

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• Author: Anastasia Chen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up this autumn with a bowl of Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili! This creamy, savory dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, fresh jalapenos, and a mix of melted cheeses for a flavor explosion. Perfect for cozy family dinners or game day gatherings, this chili will have everyone asking for the recipe. Serve it with tortilla chips or crusty bread for an irresistible meal that warms the soul.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 2–3 fresh jalapenos (chopped)
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon but leave some grease in the pot.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cubed chicken and chopped jalapenos; cook until the chicken is no longer pink, approximately 7 minutes.
4. Mix in cream cheese until melted; then pour in chicken broth and add cumin and chili powder to taste.
5. Bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 30 minutes.
6. Stir in shredded cheeses until melted; adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (350g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 45g
• Cholesterol: 135mg