Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
There are a few dishes that warm you from the inside out quite like a bowl of homemade chili. But when you add chipotle peppers and tender chicken, you take it to a whole new level of smoky, spicy perfection. This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is one of my favorite cozy comfort meals—the kind that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and tastes even better the next day.
I first made this Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe on a cool fall evening when I wanted something hearty but not as heavy as a beef chili. I found a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce sitting in my pantry, and that one small ingredient changed everything. The result? A rich, flavorful chili with layers of smoky spice, tender shredded chicken, beans, and just the right amount of heat. Every spoonful feels like a hug—bold, hearty, and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, something to meal prep, or a crowd-pleaser for game day, this Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe hits all the right notes.
Do you want more recipes?
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Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe (2025)
Ingredients for Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe
You don’t need fancy ingredients—just simple, wholesome ones that build incredible flavor together.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra spice)
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced avocado
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lime wedges
- Crushed tortilla chips
Pro Tip: Chipotle peppers in adobo are the secret weapon—they’re smoky, tangy, and spicy. Start with one pepper and add more if you love heat!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Forks for shredding chicken
How to Prepare Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe
This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe comes together easily in under an hour, and most of that time is hands-off simmering.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
The base of any great chili starts here—aromatic vegetables that lay the foundation for big flavor.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Spices
- Add the chicken breasts (whole) to the pot.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir gently to coat the chicken and veggies with the spices.
Tip: Cooking the spices early helps release their oils and deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Chipotle, and Broth
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
- Stir in the minced chipotle peppers and adobo sauce.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
- Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
At this point, the chili will already smell incredible—smoky, rich, and slightly sweet from the tomatoes.
Step 5: Add the Beans and Simmer
- Stir in the black beans and kidney beans.
- Simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld and the chili thicken.
If you like your chili thicker, continue simmering a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings—maybe a pinch of salt, more chili powder, or an extra spoon of adobo sauce for a bolder flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—creamy avocado, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe
This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to enjoy it.
Serving Ideas:
- Classic bowl: Serve with cornbread or a side of tortilla chips.
- Over rice or quinoa: Perfect for a heartier meal.
- Topped with cheese: Melted cheddar or pepper jack adds creamy richness.
- As a chili bar: Great for gatherings — set up toppings like cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and lime wedges.
- In tacos or burritos: Use leftovers as a filling for a spicy twist.
Pro Tip: A drizzle of lime juice just before serving brightens up the smoky flavors beautifully.
Tips for the Best Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe
- Start with one chipotle pepper: Add more only after tasting—they pack serious heat!
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes: They enhance the smoky flavor and add subtle sweetness.
- Don’t rush the simmer: The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
- Add cocoa powder or cinnamon (optional): Just ¼ teaspoon adds depth and warmth.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a luscious texture.
- Meal prep magic: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop overnight.
Variations
This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is flexible—try these fun twists to make it your own!
1. Creamy Chipotle Chicken Chili
Add 4 oz cream cheese or ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a velvety, rich version.
2. Chipotle Turkey Chili
Swap chicken for ground turkey for a leaner but equally delicious option.
3. White Chipotle Chicken Chili
Use white beans, corn, and green chilies instead of tomatoes and red beans for a lighter version.
4. Extra Veggie Boost
Add corn, zucchini, or diced sweet potatoes for extra texture and nutrients.
5. Vegetarian Chipotle Chili
Skip the chicken and double up on beans or add lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
6. Slow Cooker Method
Add all ingredients (except beans) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, shred chicken, then stir in beans and cook another 30 minutes.
7. Instant Pot Version
Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers using the “Sauté” function. Add chicken, spices, and liquids. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, quick release, shred chicken, and stir in beans.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prepping or freezing for future dinners.
To Store:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To Freeze:
- Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Add a splash of broth or water to loosen if needed.
Bonus Tip: Store in single portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
FAQs
1. How spicy is this chili?
It’s moderately spicy, depending on how many chipotle peppers you use. Start with one pepper for mild heat, and add more if you like it fiery.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it after simmering the sauce and beans. It’s a great time-saver.
3. What are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?
They’re smoked and dried jalapeños packed in a rich, tangy, spicy sauce—available in cans in most grocery stores.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more beans or lentils, plus vegetable broth.
5. How can I make it thicker?
Simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes, or mash some beans against the side of the pot to naturally thicken it.
6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—thighs are juicier and add more flavor. They work perfectly in this Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe.
7. What sides go well with this chili?
Cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or even tortilla chips are great pairings.
8. How do I tone down the heat if it’s too spicy?
Add a little extra tomato sauce or stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream to mellow it out.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
(Serves 6)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sodium: 640mg
Nutrition values will vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is everything you want in a comforting meal—smoky, spicy, hearty, and deeply satisfying. The chipotle peppers bring a bold depth of flavor that’s both unique and addictive, while the shredded chicken and beans make it hearty enough to stand on its own.
The Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe is a dish that’s perfect for cozy nights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd—and the leftovers somehow taste even better the next day. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste, whether you prefer it mild, creamy, or loaded with veggies.
So grab your pot, open that can of chipotle peppers, and let the magic happen. One bite of this smoky Chipotle Chicken Chili Recipe and you’ll understand why it’s become one of my most-loved comfort food recipes.
Serve it up with a sprinkle of cheese, a squeeze of lime, and a warm piece of cornbread—and enjoy every flavorful, cozy spoonful.