Tex-Mex Chicken Chili

If you crave a warm, flavorful dish that combines the best of Tex-Mex flair with the comfort of chili, this Tex-Mex Chicken Chili recipe is for you. Loaded with protein, fiber, and an enticing mix of spices, this dish is ideal for family dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep for busy weeks. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, with each serving costing less than $1.50. Who says comfort food can’t be affordable?

Hearty and flavorful Tex Mex Chicken Chili, loaded with tender chicken, vibrant corn, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.

Servings: 6 | Ready in 30 minutes | Budget $8.53

Ingredients :

• 1 LB boneless skinless chicken breast — $2.26

• 4 cups chicken broth — $1.00

• 8 oz cream cheese — $1.96

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained — $0.76

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed — $0.92

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies — $0.96

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix — $0.57

• 1 tsp chili powder — pantry staple

• 1 tsp cumin — pantry staple

  
  

💰 Total Actual Cost (recipe): $8.53

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Instructions

In a large pot, combine the boneless skinless chicken breast with the chicken broth. Bring this to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes until fully cooked. Once it's done, remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the broth. This step makes the chicken tender and flavorful.

Next, add the cream cheese, drained corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, ranch seasoning mix, chili powder, and cumin to the pot. Stir everything until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese melts into the broth, which will create a creamy texture.

Let the chili simmer on medium heat for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld beautifully, and the cozy aroma of spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting!

Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you like more spice, consider adding an extra teaspoon of chili powder or another dash of cumin.

Serve your Tex-Mex Chicken Chili hot. Pair it with tortilla chips for crunch or cornbread for a sweet touch.

Budget Breakdown:

• Chicken breast — $12.18 (~5.4 lb pack)

• Chicken broth, 32 oz — $1.50

• Cream cheese, 8 oz — $1.96

• Corn, 15 oz — $0.76

• Black beans, 15 oz — $0.92

• Diced tomatoes with green chilies, 10 oz — $0.96

• Ranch seasoning mix, 1 oz — $0.57

• Chili powder — pantry

• Cumin — pantry

  
  

🛒 Total Estimated Cost: $18.85

One of the best aspects of chili is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to tailor your Tex-Mex Chicken Chili to your taste:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or diced jalapeños to boost flavor and nutrition. Studies show that adding just one cup of vegetables can increase the health benefits of your meal significantly.

  
  

• Adjust the Spice Level: For a kick, consider adding fresh or pickled jalapeños or a squeeze of lime juice.

  
  

• Toppings for Texture: Enhance your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, or diced avocado. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate the flavors as well.

  
  

• Make it Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with additional black beans or lentils, which not only ups the flavor profile but increases fiber and protein content.

  
  

Nutritional Highlights

This Tex-Mex Chicken Chili is both delicious and packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken offers an excellent source of lean protein, contributing to muscle health and satiety. The black beans are high in fiber, supporting digestive health. Additionally, spices like chili powder and cumin are linked to anti-inflammatory benefits and can even aid in boosting metabolism.

A hearty pot of Tex Mex chili brimming with beans, corn, and spices, ready to be savored.