Quick and Flavorful Green Salsa Chicken Chili

When you’re pressed for time but still crave a hearty, comforting meal, this Green Salsa Chicken Chili is the perfect solution. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and vibrant salsa verde for a meal that’s satisfying without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing meals ahead of time, this chili is simple, fast, and packed with flavor.

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The bright, tangy notes of salsa verde transform this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. It brings a freshness and zest that pairs beautifully with the warm spices and tender chicken. Even with just a handful of ingredients, this chili delivers a satisfying meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Green Salsa Chicken Chili

Fast and Easy: With only seven main ingredients, this chili comes together in about 20 minutes. It’s an ideal choice when you need dinner on the table quickly.

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this dish is naturally gluten-free and nourishing.

Bold and Flavorful: The salsa verde carries the chili’s flavor, adding a tangy, slightly smoky taste that makes each bite memorable.

Flexible: Adjust the spice to your liking, make it thicker or brothy, or swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

Using leftover cooked chicken or a store-bought salsa verde makes this recipe even more convenient. You’ll have a fresh, flavorful meal without the hassle of a long cooking process.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this fast and delicious Green Salsa Chicken Chili:

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works best, but any cooked chicken will do.
• Salsa Verde: The key ingredient. You can use homemade or store-bought for a bold, tangy flavor.
• Broth or Water: Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal, but water works too.
• White Beans: Great northern beans or cannellini beans provide creaminess and added protein.
• Green Chiles: A small can adds depth and a gentle kick.
• Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder give this chili a classic southwest warmth.
• Salt: Adjust according to taste and the saltiness of your salsa.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or crispy tortilla strips can take this chili to the next level.

These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Ingredients

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the shredded chicken, salsa verde, broth or water, drained beans, green chiles, cumin, and chili powder. Stir everything together until well incorporated.

2. Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together. The salsa verde will infuse the chicken and beans with its bright, zesty flavor.

3. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Sample the chili and add salt if needed. Depending on the salsa verde you use, you may need little or no additional salt.

4. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your preferred garnishes. Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or tortilla chips are excellent choices to complement the tangy flavors of the chili.

Tips for the Best Chili

• Chicken Options: Leftover rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but you can also poach chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer a homemade touch.
• Choosing Salsa Verde: Mild, medium, or hot salsa all work. Start with mild if you want to control the spice, and add jalapeños or green chiles for more heat.
• Adjusting Thickness: If you like a thicker chili, simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. For a soupier chili, add extra broth.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with additional beans or cubed tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What to Serve with Green Salsa Chicken Chili

This chili is versatile and pairs beautifully with simple sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Tortilla Chips or Strips: Perfect for scooping and adding crunch.
• Cornbread: A slightly sweet, moist slice balances the tangy, zesty flavors.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light lime vinaigrette keeps the meal refreshing.
• Grains: Serve over rice or quinoa for a more filling bowl.

These options make it easy to tailor the meal to your taste, whether you want something light or heartier.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes. Thawed, cooked chicken works fine. Simply shred or cube it before adding to the chili.

How spicy is this chili?
The spice level depends on the salsa verde you choose. Mild will give you a gentle flavor, while medium or hot adds heat. You can always adjust with extra chiles or spices.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Let the chili cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

Why This Chili Works

This Green Salsa Chicken Chili is the perfect balance of healthy and satisfying. It’s rich in protein, fiber, and flavor, yet light enough for a weeknight dinner. The salsa verde brings a bright, fresh taste that makes each spoonful feel vibrant and comforting.

By keeping the ingredient list simple, you can create a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also highly adaptable—whether you want it spicier, thicker, or vegetarian, this chili adjusts easily to your needs.

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