Food Network Chefs’ Top Chili Recipe Videos _ Food Network
**The Art of Making Chicken Chili**
Chili is one of those dishes that's perfect for cold winter days or whenever you need a warm, comforting meal. It's also incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we'll explore the basics of making delicious chicken chili and some tips to take it to the next level.
**Starting with the Basics**
When it comes to making chicken chili, there are a few essential ingredients that you can't go without. First and foremost, you need a base of flavor, which is where the spices come in. I like to start with a teaspoon of chili powder, followed by a teaspoon of cumin, a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. These spices provide a solid foundation for the rest of the dish. Next, you'll want to add some aromatics, such as onions or garlic, to give your chili some depth.
**Adding Proteins and Veggies**
Once you have your spice blend going, it's time to add some protein and vegetables to give your chili some substance. I like to use ground chicken in my recipe, but you can also use ground beef or a combination of both. For the veggies, I stick with what's simple: diced bell peppers, chopped tomatoes, and a handful of fresh cilantro (or basil, if you're not a fan of cilantro).
**The Magic Happens**
Now that we have our ingredients sorted out, it's time to start cooking! In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic until they're softened. Then, add in your ground chicken and cook until it's browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Next, add in your spice blend and stir everything together. Pour in two 28-oz cans of diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
**Adding the Finishing Touches**
As the chili simmers away, you can start thinking about adding some finishing touches to take it to the next level. For me, this means adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it a bit of heat – and by a pinch, I mean as much or as little as you like! You'll also want to add in any additional spices or seasonings that tickle your fancy.
**Adding Texture with Beans**
Once the chili has simmered for about 30 minutes, it's time to add some beans to give it texture. I like to use a combination of kidney and pinto beans, but feel free to experiment with different types of beans until you find one that works for you. Simply drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot and let them simmer alongside the chili.
**The Final Touches**
As the chicken and beans finish cooking, it's time to think about adding some final touches. For me, this means stirring in a tablespoon or two of Masa harina – corn flour that thickens the chili and adds a subtle corn flavor. I also like to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten up the flavors.
**Serving It Up**
Finally, it's time to serve up your delicious chicken chili! I love serving mine with all sorts of fixings: tortilla chips, shredded cheese, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Feel free to get creative – after all, that's what makes cooking so much fun!
**Chili Variations**
Of course, one of the best things about making chili is experimenting with different variations until you find your perfect recipe. Some people like to add in ground beef or sausage for a heartier flavor. Others prefer a spicy kick from hot peppers or diced jalapeños. And then there are those who like to mix it up with some beans, corn, or even sweet potatoes.
**Making It Ahead of Time**
One of the best things about making chili is that it's easy to make ahead of time and reheat as needed. Simply cook your recipe through, then let it cool before refrigerating or freezing it for later use. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks – just toss everything together in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and forget about it!
**The Secret to Delicious Chili**
So what's the secret to making truly delicious chili? In my opinion, it all comes down to using high-quality ingredients and not being afraid to experiment until you find your perfect flavor profile. Don't be afraid to try new spices or seasonings – after all, that's where the magic happens!