A Delicious and Easy Comfort Food
Introduction
Creamy chili is a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for family dinners and cozy nights. Made with either ground beef or rotisserie chicken, this dish is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Its blend of spices and textures creates a comforting, satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a big hit with kids, making it a family-friendly favorite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chili has a long history in North American cuisine, traditionally known for its robust, spicy flavors. This creamy variation is a comforting twist on the classic, integrating the rich, smooth texture of cream cheese and heavy cream. With roots in Tex-Mex cooking, creamy chili adds a new layer of indulgence while maintaining the heartiness that makes chili a beloved staple.
Ingredients Quantity
- 3 lbs ground beef or rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- 1 large onion, diced (use a mix of yellow and red for depth)
- 1 sweet bell pepper, diced (try a mix of mini peppers for color)
- 10–12 oz frozen corn
- 12 oz heavy whipping cream
- 4 cans of beans (Great Northern, pinto, red, and dark red kidney beans)
- 12 oz cream cheese
- 2 cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes with chiles
- 1 4 oz can of fire-roasted chiles
- 2 tbsp tomato bouillon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz chicken bone broth (or regular chicken broth)
- 8 oz beef bone broth
Optional Additions
- Sliced jalapeños for extra spice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Grated cheddar cheese for added richness
- Tortilla chips or croutons for texture
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked meat for a quicker meal. A rotisserie chicken works great if you’re short on time.
- Adjust spices to suit your taste; add more chiles if you like it spicy, or skip them for a milder flavor.
- Rinse and drain beans before adding them to remove extra sodium and prevent the chili from becoming too watery.
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat
- If using ground beef, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then set aside.
- For rotisserie chicken, shred it and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients
- To the pot, add frozen corn, heavy cream, drained beans, cream cheese, fire-roasted tomatoes, chiles, tomato bouillon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken and beef broths and stir well.
- Simmer the Chili
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to help the cream cheese melt and blend. Let it simmer for 20 minutes until all flavors meld.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the creamy chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings like grated cheese, fresh cilantro, or a side of tortilla chips.
Description
This creamy chili is a rich and flavorful twist on traditional chili. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and an array of beans provides a variety of textures, while the cream cheese and heavy cream add a delicious creaminess. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent, perfect for a satisfying family meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and exact measurements.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Creamy chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you opt for ground beef or chicken, this dish is simple, affordable, and full of flavor. Perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
With its balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and fiber-rich beans, creamy chili is both indulgent and nourishing. By using wholesome ingredients and plenty of spices, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that’s flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying. Enjoy this warm, creamy delight any time you crave a comforting meal!