If you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chili that’s lighter than beef but just as satisfying, Barefoot Contessa Chicken Chili is the recipe you need. This Ina Garten classic uses boneless chicken breasts, two types of beans, and rich tomato flavor, all simmered with warm spices for a chili that’s both hearty and wholesome.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Chicken Chili?

This dish is Ina Garten’s twist on traditional chili, replacing ground beef with chunks of juicy chicken breast and using a mix of chili powder, cumin, and fresh vegetables. The result is a deeply flavorful but lighter chili—perfect for weeknights, make-ahead meals, or game day gatherings.

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Chicken Chili

Lighter than traditional chili – Made with lean chicken
Bold, layered flavor – From spices, herbs, and vegetables
Feeds a crowd – Makes a generous batch
Meal prep–friendly – Tastes even better the next day
Freezer-safe – Perfect for batch cooking
Customizable toppings – Sour cream, avocado, cheese, or chips
True Ina style – Simple ingredients, elevated results

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Chili

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2½–3 lbs)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups chopped yellow onions (about 2 medium onions)
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon dried red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes in puree
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup chicken stock
1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar, scallions, cilantro, tortilla chips

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Chicken Chili

Step 1: Roast or Sear the Chicken

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 30–35 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized chunks. Set aside.

Alternatively, you can sear the chicken in a pan and then shred or cube it.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers and sauté for 10–12 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Base

Add chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken stock. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken and Beans

Add the cooked chicken, kidney beans, and black beans to the pot. Simmer uncovered over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve Hot with Toppings

Ladle chili into bowls and serve hot with your favorite toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar, sliced scallions, or crushed tortilla chips.

What to Serve With Chicken Chili

Warm cornbread or cheddar biscuits – Classic pairing
Crusty sourdough bread – To scoop and dip
Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette – Refreshing contrast
Tortilla chips or nachos – Crunchy side or topping
Steamed rice or quinoa – To bulk up the meal
Grilled cheese sandwich – Great for dipping
A cold beer or iced tea – Complements the spices

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

Use roasted chicken for more flavor – Ina recommends baking
Simmer gently, don’t boil – Preserves texture and moisture
Taste as you go – Adjust spice and salt levels to your liking
Add beans at the end – Prevents them from becoming mushy
Use high-quality crushed tomatoes – They deepen the flavor
Add toppings just before serving – Keeps them fresh
Double the batch – It freezes perfectly

Variations of the Recipe

Add corn or zucchini – For extra color and sweetness
Use ground chicken or turkey instead of chunks
Swap black beans for pinto or white beans
Add chipotle peppers in adobo – For smoky heat
Make it vegetarian – Omit chicken and double the beans
Top with avocado slices – For creaminess
Serve over baked potatoes – For a hearty twist

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps for up to 4 days
Reheat on stovetop or microwave – Stir occasionally while heating
Freeze in portioned containers – Lasts up to 3 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge – For even reheating
Add a splash of broth or water when reheating – Restores consistency
Store toppings separately – Add fresh after reheating
Label and date freezer containers – For easy meal prep

How Do I Reuse Leftover Chicken Chili?

Make loaded chili nachos – Top chips with chili, cheese, and jalapeños
Serve in tacos or burritos – With lettuce and sour cream
Spoon over baked sweet potatoes – Healthy and filling
Turn into chili mac – Mix with cooked pasta and cheese
Serve over scrambled eggs or toast – For a savory breakfast
Use as a dip with tortilla chips – Add melted cheese on top
Stuff into bell peppers or wraps – Bake or grill for a new twist

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: 480
Protein: 42g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 8g
Sodium: 640mg
Sugar: 7g

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken in Barefoot Contessa’s chicken chili?

Yes, leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just cut it into chunks and add it when the broth and beans are simmering.

How do I make Ina Garten’s chicken chili less spicy?

Skip the red pepper flakes and reduce the chili powder slightly. You can also stir in a bit of sour cream before serving to mellow the heat.

Can I make this chicken chili ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What beans work best in this chili recipe?

Ina uses a mix of kidney and black beans, but you can substitute with white beans, pinto beans, or any combination you prefer.

Final Words

Barefoot Contessa’s Chicken Chili is the perfect blend of bold flavor and comforting texture. With tender chunks of chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tomato-based broth seasoned to perfection, it’s a dish that’s satisfying without being heavy.

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