Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight meal into a flavor-packed adventure with this mouthwatering Southwestern Chili Chicken with Peppers! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that combines tender, spice-rubbed chicken thighs with hearty chili beans and vibrant bell peppers. This recipe isn't just a meal—it's a culinary journey through the bold and zesty flavors of the Southwest that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping bell peppers and onions, mincing garlic, and patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season chicken thighs generously with chili powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides, ensuring even coating.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, keeping warm by covering with foil.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until vegetables become slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chili beans with their sauce, stirring to combine with vegetables and scraping any browned bits from the pan.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the bean mixture, and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for better heat distribution and more flavorful browning.
- Don't rush the chicken cooking process—5-6 minutes per side creates that delicious crispy exterior.
- Check chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to your spice mix.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness.
- Optional garnishes like fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 125mg
