There’s something incredibly cozy about a steaming bowl of chili on a chilly evening. I first created BBQ Chicken Chili on a weekend when I had leftover rotisserie chicken and some BBQ sauce sitting in the fridge. I wanted to transform it into something warming, hearty, and packed with bold flavors. The result was a smoky, slightly sweet, and spicy chili that tasted like it had been simmering all day — but in reality, it came together in under an hour! Since that first trial, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week. Every spoonful is comforting, filling, and just a little addictive.
What Makes This Recipe Special 🌿🔥
What makes BBQ Chicken Chili stand out is its unique combination of smoky BBQ flavor with the classic heartiness of chili. The chicken adds protein and texture, while beans, tomatoes, and peppers create a rich, thick base. Unlike traditional beef chili, this version is lighter but still deeply satisfying. The BBQ sauce adds a hint of sweetness and smokiness that elevates the flavor, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and game-day gatherings. It’s a cozy, all-in-one meal that’s versatile, easy to make, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor 🧄🌶️🍅
For the Chili:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite smoky variety)
- 1 cup chicken stock or water
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions 👩🍳
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add diced red and green bell peppers and cook for another 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 2: Add Spices and Chicken
Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add shredded chicken and toss to coat evenly with the spices.
Step 3: Build the Chili Base
Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, BBQ sauce, and chicken stock. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Simmer for Flavor
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed — add more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra heat. For a sweeter chili, add a splash of honey or extra BBQ sauce.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips. Enjoy it hot for ultimate comfort.
Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With 🌮🍞
- Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the smoky, spicy flavors.
- Rice: Serve chili over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal.
- Tortilla Chips: Great for scooping and adding extra crunch.
- Salads: Pair with a simple green salad to balance richness.
- Sandwiches: Use leftover chili as a topping for grilled cheese or open-faced sandwiches.
Customization & Variations 🔄
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with extra beans or roasted vegetables.
- Spicy Variation: Add fresh diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
- Smokier Flavor: Use smoked chicken or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
- Cheesy Chili: Stir in shredded cheese while simmering for a creamy consistency.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store chili in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months.
Storing & Reheating 🍱
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if needed. For freezing, divide into individual portions, freeze up to 2 months, and thaw overnight before reheating. The chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.) ⚖️
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
Reader Q&A – Common Questions 💬
1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, cook the chicken in the chili for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Can I use a different BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all work — adjust sugar or spice as needed.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken with extra beans, lentils, or roasted vegetables.
4. Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
5. Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, cayenne, or more chili powder to taste.
6. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for vegetables and then pressure cook for 10 minutes.
7. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, chili tastes even better the next day.
8. What sides work best?
Cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or salad complement it perfectly.
9. Can I add cheese?
Yes! Stir in shredded cheddar or top before serving.
10. How do I thicken the chili?
Simmer uncovered or mash some beans to thicken naturally.
Final Thoughts 🍽️
BBQ Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort meal — smoky, spicy, and full of hearty flavor. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Every spoonful delivers warmth, bold flavor, and cozy satisfaction. Pair it with cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal.
🍴 Tried This Recipe?
Did you try this BBQ Chicken Chili? Share your experience in the comments below — did you make it spicy, smoky, or extra cheesy? Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest [@mamacooksdinner] for more comforting, bold, and easy-to-make recipes every week! 🌶️💛
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Hi, I’m Sayan, the creator behind Mamacooksdinner.com. I’m passionate about making home cooking easy and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef, my goal is to help you create delicious meals with simple ingredients.