There’s something magical about Christmas—the twinkling lights, the cozy sweaters, and of course, the food. But let’s be honest, after all those cookies and heavy meals, I’m always craving something hearty yet wholesome. That’s where this Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili swoops in like a holiday miracle. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and warm spices, it’s comfort food without the guilt. I love how the aroma of cumin and chili powder fills the kitchen, making it feel festive without weighing us down. Trust me, it’s the perfect dish to balance out the season’s indulgences while keeping everyone at the table happy.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili
This chili isn’t just another holiday dish—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why it’s become my go-to every December:
- Quick & easy: Ready in 35 minutes flat (perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in)
- Protein powerhouse: Lean chicken and black beans keep you full without the food coma
- Festive flavors: Warm spices make it taste like Christmas in a bowl
- One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time for holiday movies
- Secretly healthy: Packed with nutrients but tastes indulgent—my kids never suspect a thing
Ingredients for Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili
Here’s what you’ll need to make this festive chili sing – I promise most are pantry staples you probably already have! The magic happens when these simple ingredients come together:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces (thighs work too for extra richness)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (that liquid can make things mushy)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – don’t drain these, the juice adds great flavor
- 1 medium onion, chopped (I prefer yellow for sweetness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp pre-minced if you’re in a hurry)
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing (avocado oil works too)
- 1 tsp cumin – the spice that makes it taste like Christmas
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust up if you like more heat)
- 1/2 tsp paprika – smoked paprika adds a nice twist
- Salt & pepper to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp salt)
- 1 cup chicken broth – low-sodium lets you control the salt
How to Make Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili
Now for the fun part – turning these simple ingredients into cozy holiday magic! Grab your favorite soup pot (I use my trusty Dutch oven) and let’s get cooking:
- Sizzle those aromatics: Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring until they’re soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). That heavenly smell means you’re off to a great start!
- Cook the chicken: Toss in diced chicken, stirring occasionally until it’s no longer pink (5-6 minutes). Don’t overcook it here – it’ll finish cooking in the simmer. Pro tip: I like to season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Build the flavors: Stir in all those gorgeous spices – cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Let them toast for 30 seconds until fragrant (your kitchen will smell like Christmas!).
- Bring it together: Add black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Give it a good stir, scraping up any tasty bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to medium-low and let it bubble gently for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have married beautifully.
- Taste and adjust: Give it a final taste test – I usually add another pinch of salt and maybe a squeeze of lime if it needs brightness.
Pro Tips for the Best Chili
After making this dozens of times, here are my can’t-skip secrets:
- Underseasoned? Chili powders vary – taste halfway through and add more if needed.
- Bean texture matters: Don’t overstir after adding beans to keep them intact.
- Toppings make it special: Avocado slices, Greek yogurt, or crushed tortilla chips add fun texture.
- Resting time: Like all good chilis, it tastes even better after sitting 10 minutes off heat.
Ingredient Substitutions & Notes
One of the best things about this chili is how flexible it is! Here are my favorite swaps and tips:
- Protein swap: Leftover Christmas turkey works beautifully instead of chicken—just shred it and add it in the last 5 minutes.
- Tomato twist: Fire-roasted tomatoes add incredible smoky depth if you have them.
- Bean options: Kidney or pinto beans make great alternatives to black beans.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken, use veggie broth, and double the beans—it’s still packed with protein!
- Spice level: Add a diced jalapeño with the onions if your family likes more heat.
No matter how you tweak it, this chili always turns out comforting and delicious!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili
Now comes my favorite part – dressing up this cozy chili to make it feel extra festive! Here’s how I love to serve it:
- Golden cornbread on the side for dipping (bonus points if it’s shaped like little Christmas trees!)
- A crisp winter salad with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and crunch
- Fun toppings bar: Set out bowls of fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced avocado, and Greek yogurt (so everyone can customize)
- Festive touch: Serve in red and green bowls with sprigs of rosemary as garnish – smells amazing and looks holiday-ready
Trust me, these little touches turn simple chili into a Christmas feast everyone remembers!
Storage & Reheating
This chili gets even better the next day—if you can resist eating it all at once! Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Freezer-friendly: Portion into containers (leave 1-inch space) and freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheating magic: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back that perfect consistency
- Microwave tip: Stir every 30 seconds to heat evenly
Perfect for quick holiday meals when you’re too busy wrapping presents!
Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili Nutrition
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 1/2 cups). Remember, values are estimates – brands and exact measurements may vary slightly:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 8g (1.5g saturated)
- Sodium: 480mg
All that flavor and nutrition in one cozy bowl – now that’s what I call holiday magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Over the years, I’ve gotten some great questions about this Christmas chili – here are the ones that come up most often:
- Can I use a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just sauté the onions and chicken first, then add everything to the slow cooker on low for 4 hours. So easy for holiday parties!
- Is this chili gluten-free? Yes! Just double-check your chicken broth label to be safe (some brands sneak in wheat).
- How can I adjust the spice level? Toss in a diced jalapeño with the onions for heat, or add a pinch of cayenne. My kids prefer it mild, so I serve hot sauce on the side.
Tag us if you make this holiday chili!
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Christmas Healthy Chicken Black Bean Chili in 35 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and healthy chili perfect for Christmas, packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add diced chicken, cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and spices.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
- Top with avocado or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American