Hearty and Healthy Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili: Your Ultimate Comfort Food for Fall Nights

Welcome to a bowl of pure, wholesome comfort! This Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili is a vibrant, hearty, yet wonderfully light chicken chili, lovingly simmered with a blend of aromatic spices and nourishing vegetables. It’s the epitome of healthy comfort food, perfect for satisfying your cravings without weighing you down. We’re thrilled to share that this delightful recipe was crafted in partnership with Bush’s Beans, ensuring a delicious and high-quality meal every single time.

There’s an undeniable magic that happens when fall officially arrives, and for many, that magic is inextricably linked with the tantalizing aroma of a warm, bubbling pot of chili. While a good chili can certainly satisfy a craving any time of year, the cooler, crisper air of autumn seems to whisper its name, especially when evenings begin to draw in earlier and there’s a comforting hint of coziness in the atmosphere. Here in sunny Florida, we eagerly await those first genuinely cool breezes, and when they finally grace us with their presence, it’s a clear signal to gather friends and family for cherished fall activities. Imagine the joyous laughter during pumpkin carving sessions, the collective cheers erupting during a spirited football or basketball game, or the eager anticipation before a night of trick-or-treating – this Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili is the perfect culinary centerpiece for all these beloved moments. It’s an easy-to-prepare, deeply satisfying meal that effortlessly brings people together, making every autumn gathering feel a little more special and a lot more delicious. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes the body and warms the soul, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Halloween 2012 Memories

I’ve had the pleasure of crafting this vibrant “red” version of chicken chili multiple times over the past few months, and on each occasion it has been shared with family and friends, it’s been met with enthusiastic, rave reviews. Often, when the idea of chicken chili crosses my mind, I tend to think of the creamy, white-based varieties. However, for this particular creation, I deliberately decided to embrace the rich, traditional flavors of a classic red chili, while still ensuring the dish remained remarkably light and lean. My secret to achieving this balance? Incorporating whole, boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the pot during the cooking process. This ingenious method not only infuses the chicken with all the incredible, robust flavors of the chili as it simmers but also ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and effortless to shred later, integrating perfectly into the hearty stew. My go-to chili formula consistently includes a lean protein, an abundance of fresh, colorful vegetables, and a generous helping of nutrient-rich beans – all perfectly seasoned with a classic blend of chili powder, fragrant garlic, and earthy cumin. But what truly elevates any chili experience, in my opinion, are the “fixings.” A diverse array of toppings is absolutely essential for customizing each bowl. I love presenting options like freshly chopped cilantro, crisp regular or green onions, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt (or traditional sour cream for those who prefer it), a sprinkle of sharp shredded cheddar cheese, and an assortment of hot sauces for those seeking an extra fiery kick. These thoughtful additions transform each serving into a personalized culinary adventure, allowing everyone to craft their perfect bowl of chili.

With our newest little family member recently arrived, my wonderful mom has been a true lifesaver, spending invaluable time at our house to help out with the kids and various everyday tasks (a genuine lifesaver, for which I am incredibly thankful!). Her next anticipated visit is this Thursday, which coincides perfectly with Halloween night, and I’m already planning to prepare a big, comforting pot of this delicious Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili. It’s truly the ideal easy dinner for all of us to enjoy before we embark on our neighborhood trick-or-treating adventure with the little ones. Growing up, chili wasn’t a dish my family made often, if ever. So, when my mom tasted this specific Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili recipe during her last visit, she absolutely adored it and was so impressed by the flavor. I’m genuinely excited to make it for her again; I know she’ll enjoy every single hearty bite. Now, if only the unpredictable Florida weather would cooperate and bless us with a truly cool and crisp Halloween evening, the entire experience would be absolutely perfect!

Halloween 2011 Fun

And this little guy, he truly makes my heart melt. 😉

Speaking of Halloween, do you typically get into the spirit and dress up? For many years as an adult, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about Halloween, preferring to sit it out, until my children came along. Now, the holiday has completely transformed into a delightful and eagerly anticipated family affair. I often find myself rummaging through my closet on the very day of, piecing together whatever whimsical, quirky, or even slightly outlandish costume I can conjure up. My kids usually find it absolutely hilarious – or perhaps a touch peculiar, but either way, it undeniably adds to the fun and creates wonderful memories! Since my husband has always been the true Halloween lover between us, we’ve amassed quite an impressive collection of interesting wigs, elaborate costume accessories, and various theatrical pieces over our twelve years together. This year, however, presents a unique challenge for me. Many of our treasured Halloween items are still unorganized or packed away in boxes from our recent move, making the thought of digging through everything feel daunting. But I know the effort will be worth it for the sheer joy and excitement on my children’s faces. Perhaps I should start planning and searching for something now, rather than waiting until the very last minute! Halloween is a time for playful escapades and creating lasting family traditions, and a hearty, fuss-free meal like this Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili ensures that the focus remains squarely on fun and family bonding, not on complicated cooking. It’s truly the perfect fuel for a night of adventure, providing warmth, energy, and delicious satisfaction before heading out into the festive, candy-filled night.

Why This Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili is Your New Fall Favorite

This isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a vibrant celebration of wholesome ingredients and deeply comforting flavors, thoughtfully designed to fit seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle. Here’s why this Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili stands out as the ultimate fall comfort food, destined to become a staple in your home:

Healthy & Hearty: We thoughtfully swap traditional beef for lean, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are cooked directly within the chili broth. This allows them to absorb all the rich, complex flavors before being easily shredded. The result is a lighter meal that retains all the satisfying heartiness and robust flavor you expect from a truly great chili, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Packed with Nutrients: Featuring two types of delicious, fiber-rich Bush’s Beans – Red Kidney and Pinto – this chili is a powerhouse of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health. Combined with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables like sweet onions, colorful bell peppers, and crisp celery, it’s bursting with essential vitamins and antioxidants, making every spoonful incredibly nourishing and good for you.
Rich, Authentic Flavor: The appealing deep red color and robust, authentic flavor of this chili come from a carefully balanced, classic blend of premium chili powder, earthy cumin, sweet paprika, aromatic garlic powder, and savory onion powder, all beautifully enhanced by fire-roasted diced tomatoes and smooth tomato sauce. These spices work in harmony to create a warm, complex, and incredibly satisfying flavor profile that feels both wonderfully familiar and excitingly delicious.
Perfect for Gatherings & Easy Weeknights: Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner for your family or hosting a festive gathering with loved ones, chili is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is inherently easy to scale up for larger groups and can be effortlessly prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen even further. This flexibility means you can spend more quality time enjoying the company of your guests and less time tethered to the kitchen.
Customizable Fun with Toppings: A chili bar is perhaps the best kind of interactive meal, transforming dinner into an engaging experience! Offer a generous variety of toppings such as finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a cooling dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or sour cream, fresh, fragrant cilantro, thinly chopped green onions, and an assortment of your favorite hot sauces. Everyone at the table can customize their bowl to their exact preference, adding an extra layer of enjoyment and personalization to the dining experience. Consider adding avocado slices, a squeeze of fresh lime, or pickled jalapeños for even more variety!

Tips for Making the Best Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili

Achieving a truly exceptional chili is all about paying attention to a few key techniques and allowing flavors to develop with a little patience. Follow these essential tips to ensure your Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili is absolutely perfect, delivering maximum flavor and a delightful texture every time:

Sauté Aromatics Thoroughly: Do not rush the initial step of sautéing the chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery. Cooking them until they are slightly softened and beautifully fragrant, typically for about 5-7 minutes, forms the crucial, flavorful foundation of your chili. This gentle sautéing allows their natural sugars to caramelize slightly and their savory notes to develop fully, laying the groundwork for a deeply flavored dish.
Build Flavor Layers with Spices: When you add the chili seasoning blend directly to the sautéed vegetables, cook it for just another minute, stirring constantly. This brief toasting step for the spices is immensely important; it helps to release their full aromatic potential and intensifies their flavors, creating a deeper, more robust, and incredibly fragrant flavor profile for the entire chili.
Effortless Chicken Shredding: Cooking whole chicken breasts directly in the chili ensures they remain wonderfully moist and absorb all the rich flavors of the broth and spices beautifully. Once fully cooked, carefully remove the tender chicken breasts from the pot and transfer them to a cutting board. Using two forks, you’ll find it incredibly easy to shred the succulent chicken meat. Alternatively, for larger batches or if you prefer an even quicker method, a hand mixer on a low speed can shred cooked chicken in mere seconds.
The Art of Slow Simmering: The longer your chili is allowed to simmer uncovered over low-medium heat, the more all the incredible flavors will meld, deepen, and concentrate. This slow simmering process also allows the chili to naturally thicken to a perfect, spoon-coating consistency. Resist the urge to rush this crucial step; patience truly is key for developing those rich, complex, and harmonious flavors that define an outstanding chili.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always make it a point to taste your chili towards the end of the simmering process, just before serving. This is your opportunity to fine-tune the seasonings. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed, and feel free to add a little more chili powder or cumin if you desire a bolder flavor. Remember, flavors often intensify as the chili sits and cools, so it’s wise to start conservatively and build up to your preferred taste.

So go ahead, gather your loved ones, dig in, and savor every spoonful of this incredibly satisfying and healthy Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a cool day, a joyful centerpiece for family gatherings, and a delicious testament to the simple yet profound pleasures of home cooking. Enjoy this perfect bowl of fall comfort!

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Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili

Author: Aggie’s Kitchen
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Chicken, Chili, Fall Recipes, Dinner, Healthy
Method: Stovetop

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This Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili is the perfect balance of hearty and light, packed with tender shredded chicken, two types of flavorful beans (Bush’s Red Kidney and Pinto beans), and a medley of wholesome vegetables simmered in a rich, spiced tomato base. It’s truly healthy comfort food at its best, ideal for a cozy fall evening or a festive gathering! This recipe was proudly created in partnership with Bush’s Beans, ensuring quality and delicious taste in every spoonful.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste, adjust at the end)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 large red or green bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 8 oz can tomato sauce
1/4 cup water (can be used to rinse out leftover tomatoes in cans, or use more if needed for consistency)
1 15 oz can Bush’s Red Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
2 15 oz cans Bush’s Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained
4 cups low sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir well to mix all the spices evenly. Set this potent spice blend aside; it’s the very heart of your chili’s rich flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become wonderfully fragrant. This crucial step is key for building a deep and flavorful foundation for your chili.
Stir the reserved chili seasoning blend into the softened vegetables, cooking for another minute until the spices become fragrant. This brief toasting of the spices intensifies their flavors. Next, carefully add the whole chicken breasts, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water (using it to rinse out the tomato cans helps capture any remaining flavor), thoroughly rinsed and drained Bush’s Red Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained Bush’s Pinto Beans, and finally, the low sodium chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients. Bring the entire mixture to a slow, gentle boil.
Once the chili has reached a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing the chili to maintain a gentle, steady simmer. Continue to cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, ensuring that the chicken breasts are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the chili and transfer them to a clean cutting board. Using two forks, easily shred the tender chicken meat (or chop it with a knife if you prefer a chunkier texture). Return all the shredded chicken back into the pot of simmering chili.
Increase the heat slightly to low-medium and continue to simmer the chili uncovered for an additional 40 minutes, or even longer if you desire, until it reaches your preferred thickness and all the wonderful flavors have fully melded and deepened. Stir periodically to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Serve your hearty, healthy Red Chicken and Two-Bean Chili hot, garnished generously with your favorite toppings. Recommended fixings include a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or sour cream, crisp tortilla chips for crunch, and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. A dash of your preferred hot sauce can be added for an extra kick of spice!

Disclosure: I have an ongoing partnership relationship with Bush’s Beans and am compensated for developing and sharing this recipe and post. Rest assured, all opinions expressed here are genuinely my own and reflect my honest experience and enthusiasm for their quality products.

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