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Cajun Seasoning

Hearty Cajun Seasoning Chicken Chili for Comfort Food Lovers

This Cajun Chicken Chili is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs Provides protein and richness; substitute with plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Perfect for sautéing and adding flavor; use any neutral oil if preferred.
  • 1 large onion Adds depth and sweetness to the dish; yellow or white onions work best.
  • 2 pcs bell peppers (1 red, 1 green) Offers color and sweetness; feel free to mix and match varieties.
  • 2 cloves garlic Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, but powdered can work in a pinch.
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes Acts as a base for the chili, contributing acidity; fresh tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1 15 oz can kidney beans Provides protein and texture; any type of bean can be substituted.
  • 1 15 oz can black beans Another excellent protein source; pinto beans can be used instead if desired.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Adds moisture and depth of flavor; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoon Slap Ya Mama Seasoning The key seasoning that provides a burst of Cajun flavor; adjust based on your heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Enhances spiciness; feel free to increase or decrease according to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon cumin Introduces warmth and earthiness; this can be omitted if unavailable.
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a delightful smoky note; regular paprika can replace it.
  • salt and pepper Essential for perfect seasoning to suit your palate.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Serves as a filling base for the chili; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for a low-carb option.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Enhances the rice's flavor; vegetable broth is a great alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon butter Adds richness to the rice; replace with olive oil if desired.
  • salt A little extra seasoning for the rice.
For Serving
  • Toppings (shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, hot sauce, avocado slices) Provides finishing touches that enhance flavor and texture with this hearty Cajun chicken chili.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting dry 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with paper towels, ensuring they are moisture-free for better browning. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, coating all sides evenly.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs in batches, searing them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
  3. In the same pot, add the chopped large onion and diced bell peppers. Cook them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in 2 minced cloves of garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
  4. Pour in a can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), along with the undrained kidney beans (15 oz) and black beans (15 oz). Add 1 cup of chicken broth and the 2 tablespoons of Slap Ya Mama Seasoning, stirring well to combine.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the pot and lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot, allowing the chili to cook for 30-60 minutes.
  6. After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. In a separate saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of long-grain white rice, 1 tablespoon of butter, and a pinch of salt to a rolling boil.
  8. After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let the rice stand for 5 minutes.
  9. Once rested, use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains.
  10. To serve, ladle the flavorful Cajun chicken chili over the prepared rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Adjust the amount of Slap Ya Mama seasoning according to your heat tolerance. Let the chili sit for a few minutes before serving to help flavors meld beautifully.

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