chicken sausage Poblano Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to warm you up on a chilly night, this chicken sausage Poblano Chili is just what you need! It’s a recipe that has won over many hearts (and stomachs) in my family. The spicy-smoky flavors dance across your palate, and it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the comforting blend of chicken sausage, ground beef, beans, and delightful poblano peppers, you’ll be serving up bowls of happiness in no time!

This chili is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting friends for game day or simply need a quick meal prep option for the week, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into why this chicken sausage Poblano Chili will quickly become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: Each spoonful is bursting with rich spices and smoky goodness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty mix of ingredients!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily add or swap ingredients based on your preferences.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe makes about 10 servings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious chili! I love how these fresh items come together to create such a flavorful dish.

For the Chili

• 1 lb chicken sausage
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 large onions (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 3 poblano peppers (diced)
• 1 jalapeno pepper (ribs and seeds removed and diced)
• 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp coarse ground black pepper
• 1 15-ounce can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 1 cup water or stock

For Serving

• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Optional: Avocado, scallions, or shredded cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this chicken sausage Poblano Chili is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or even a meat substitute for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it spicier: Include more jalapeños or even some diced habanero if you like heat!
• Go vegetarian: Omit the meat entirely and load up on beans for a filling plant-based option.

How to Make chicken sausage Poblano Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, sauté the chicken sausage and ground beef until they are nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial as browning adds depth and flavor through caramelization. Once browned, remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

You should have about 2 tablespoons of cooking fat left in your pot. If there’s too much grease, feel free to remove some; if there’s not enough, add a splash of olive oil. Now, add the diced onions, peppers, and chopped garlic to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and the onions turn golden brown. This step enhances their sweetness and builds an amazing flavor base for your chili.

Step 3: Add Beans and Spices

Next, stir in the drained kidney beans along with all your dried spices—chili powder, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well so that those lovely spices coat both the beans and vegetables. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes; allowing the spices to bloom will amplify their flavors significantly! After that, include those two cans of diced tomatoes. Don’t forget to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of your pot—those bits are pure flavor magic!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring back our browned meats into the pot along with one cup of water or stock. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for one hour while stirring occasionally; this allows all those bold flavors to meld beautifully as the liquid reduces.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

After an hour of simmering bliss, taste your chili! This is where you can adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt if desired until it’s just right!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Finally, serve your sizzling chicken sausage Poblano Chili hot! Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced jalapeño slices—or any other toppings you love! Enjoy every warm bite!

This recipe makes around ten servings—perfect for sharing! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making chicken sausage Poblano Chili

Making chicken sausage Poblano chili is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh veggies and spices bring vibrant flavors and aromas that enhance every bite of your chili.
• Adjust the heat – If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of jalapeno or remove the seeds. For more heat, consider adding more jalapeno or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Let it simmer longer – The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors meld together. If time allows, let your chili simmer for 2 hours or even overnight; it tastes even better the next day!
• Taste as you go – Always taste your chili as it cooks to adjust seasoning levels. This ensures that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your preference.
• Experiment with beans – While kidney beans work beautifully, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for added texture and variety!

How to Serve chicken sausage Poblano Chili

Your chicken sausage Poblano chili deserves a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas for serving this hearty dish in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro – Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the rich flavors in the chili.
• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast and helps cool down any spiciness in the dish.
• Diced avocado – Creamy avocado enhances the texture and adds healthy fats, making each spoonful even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, helping to soak up all those delicious juices while adding a comforting touch.
• Mixed green salad – A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili and refreshes your palate between bites.
• Rice or quinoa – Serving your chili over rice or quinoa adds substance to the meal. Both options absorb flavors beautifully and create a filling dish.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips make an excellent companion for dipping into chili. They add texture and are perfect for scooping up every last bit!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone raving about your delicious chicken sausage Poblano chili! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chicken sausage Poblano chili is perfect for meal prep! It’s a hearty dish that tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Make sure to label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making chicken sausage Poblano chili that might help you out!

Can I use other types of sausage in this chicken sausage Poblano chili?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or any other preferred meat alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What toppings go well with chicken sausage Poblano chili?

Toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, diced jalapenos, or a dollop of sour cream work beautifully. You can also add shredded cheese or chopped scallions for extra flavor!

How long does chicken sausage Poblano chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious chili will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I make chicken sausage Poblano chili vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply replace the chicken sausage and ground beef with plant-based alternatives such as mushrooms, lentils, or a variety of beans. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this chicken sausage Poblano chili as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!