The Ground Chicken Chili Recipe I Can't Stop Making

This ground chicken chili recipe is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. If you're anything like me, you'll be hooked after your first bite of it...it's packed with tender ground chicken, yummy beans, creamy broth, and it's sure to warm ya up from the inside out. Plus, it's so, so easy to make. Just a handful of simple steps are all you have to follow to whip it up.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is straight from my wife's family cookbook. Her mom has been making this ground chicken chili recipe for years and years and years, and now it's a staple in our house too - especially in the cold Buffalo winter months.

Now, I'm not going to lie I usually let her make this one - I take a back seat - but it's no doubt one of my favorite chili recipes to make too. The reason I say that is because I love how quick and easy it is to put together - just one pot is all you need to make it - and I also love that clean-up is a breeze too.

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to make this chili:

For the Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-oz) can navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (2-oz) can diced green chiles
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 2 cups chicken bone broth
• 4 oz light cream cheese
• ⅔ cup frozen corn

Optional for Serving:

• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Tortilla chips

How to Make Ground Chicken Chili

Again just 5 simple steps are all you have to follow to put this ground chicken chili together!

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground chicken and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, breaking up the chicken, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the onion softens.

Step 2: Build the Base

Add the navy beans, green chiles, salt, cumin, coriander, oregano, and chicken broth. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add Creaminess

Lower the heat to low, then stir in the frozen corn and cream cheese. Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the chili.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, lime juice, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve immediately while warm, and savor every creamy, flavorful bite.

My Expert Tips

• Brown the Chicken for Flavor: Let the ground chicken develop a golden crust before stirring. It adds a depth of flavor to the chili.
• Use Bone Broth: Opt for chicken bone broth for a richer, more robust base.
• Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy chili, add an additional ounce of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
• Boost the Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Customize the Toppings: Try crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.

FAQ's About This Ground Chicken Chili Recipe

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze ground chicken chili?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What other beans can I use?

Feel free to swap navy beans for pinto beans, black beans, or cannellini beans.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well and is equally delicious in this recipe. We've made this swap several times and it's just as good.

What can I serve with this chili?

Pair it with cornbread, biscuits, sour cream and chive mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

My Final Thoughts

This creamy ground chicken chili is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort in a bowl. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Plus, the endless topping possibilities make it fun to customize for everyone at the table.

As always, give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment to let me know how you liked it!

More Chicken Recipes to Try Next

• Breaded chicken without eggs
• Chicken egg rolls
• Church's chicken
• Raising Cane's chicken
• Cava's chicken
• Bojangles fried chicken
• KFC's Famous Bowl
• Chicken fritters