Jalapeño Popper Chili

Introduction

When it comes to cozy comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of chili. This Jalapeño Popper Chili takes traditional chili to a whole new level, blending the creamy richness of cream cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños. I first made this dish during a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of flavors and textures received rave reviews, with everyone asking for seconds! The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow or white onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded, deveined, and diced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can white corn kernels, drained
• 4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature

Optional Garnishes

• Grated cheddar, pepper Jack, or Mexican cheese blend
• Crumbled crisp bacon or store-bought bacon bits
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced, or pickled jalapeños

Instructions

1. Gather the ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are ready to go before you start cooking.
2. Heat the oil: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Once the oil is shimmering (about 1 minute), add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño peppers.
3. Cook the vegetables: Stir in 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes or until the onions are transparent.
4. Add the chicken and broth: Incorporate 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth, drained white beans, and drained corn kernels. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Add the cream cheese: Turn off the heat and gently mix in 4 ounces of cream cheese until fully incorporated and there are no clumps.
6. Garnish and serve: Add any desired garnishes and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the chili hot in individual bowls.
• Top with your choice of garnishes, such as cheese, bacon, cilantro, or jalapeños.
• Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal.
• For an extra kick, add hot sauce to individual bowls.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder chili, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or use only one pepper.
2. Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
3. Use homemade broth: If you have time, use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor.
4. Slow cooker option: You can prepare this chili in a slow cooker. Just add all ingredients (except cream cheese) and cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream cheese before serving.
5. Double the recipe: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Sausage Chili: Add crumbled spicy sausage for extra flavor and protein.
• Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Chili: Mix in some shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesier chili.
• Vegetable Chili: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added veggies.
• Southwestern Style: Add diced tomatoes and corn with green chilies for a more Southwestern flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chili.
• Offer a selection of toppings, such as sour cream, avocado slices, or hot sauce, for guests to customize their bowls.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This chili can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftover chili in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

• Yes, just cook and shred it beforehand.

1. Is it necessary to use white beans?

• No, you can use any type of beans you prefer, like black beans or kidney beans.

1. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

• Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

1. How can I make this chili spicier?

• Add more jalapeños or include some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

1. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

• Yes, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used for a tangy twist.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.

1. Can I use frozen jalapeños?

• Yes, but adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

1. What should I serve with the chili?

• Cornbread, rice, or a simple salad pair nicely with this dish.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

1. Can I make this chili vegetarian?
   • Yes, just omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Popper Chili is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings a unique twist to traditional chili. The creamy texture of the cream cheese combined with the spicy jalapeños creates a warm and inviting meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and customize, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, bring out the spices, and enjoy a hearty bowl of this flavorful chili!

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