Name: The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili for a Spicy Night In
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1/4 cup dill pickle juice; 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust according to preference); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust based on preference); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 medium onion (yellow or white); 2 stalks celery (can swap with leeks); 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1 can canned beans (kidney, black, or pinto; rinsed and drained); 1 can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted varieties are great); 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)

There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a satisfying bowl of chili on a chilly night, but imagine taking that comfort to a whole new level with a spicy twist! Enter The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili—a dish that marries the zingy flavors of Nashville hot chicken with the heartiness of traditional chili. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this quick-cooking delight, perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing potluck. This recipe features tender, shredded chicken, lively spices, and all the classic chili ingredients you love, making it both a comforting favorite and a fun new take on a classic dish. Want to know the secret to making it even better? Keep scrolling to discover how you can customize it to your taste!

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What Makes This Chili So Irresistible?

Comforting Heat: The combination of spicy Nashville hot chicken flavors with the hearty elements of chili makes each bowl a delightful experience.

Quick-Cooking Wonder: With just 15 minutes of prep, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule, letting you enjoy comforting food without the wait.

Customizable Perfection: Whether you prefer extra heat or a milder version, adjusting the cayenne pepper or choosing different proteins like turkey or tofu is simple, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are satisfied.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings, this chili is sure to impress your guests, making it a perfect addition to potlucks or family dinners—pair it with cornbread for a complete meal!

Meal Prep Friendly: This chili can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, allowing for a quick, satisfying meal anytime. Don’t forget to check out my amazing Cheesy Chicken Spinach for another fantastic dish!

The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Ingredients

• Get ready to gear up your kitchen with these essential ingredients for a spectacular dish!

For the Chili Base

Rotisserie Chicken – This main protein source provides convenience and flavor without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Dill Pickle Juice – Adds a delightful tanginess that infuses the chicken and enhances the chili—perfect for achieving that Nashville hot chicken vibe!
Cayenne Pepper – A key element for heat; start with 2 tablespoons for the best Nashville hot chicken chili experience but adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Garlic Powder – Elevates the overall flavor profile; it blends seamlessly with the other spices.
Ground Cumin – Adds depth to the chili with its warm, earthy flavor; feel free to add a pinch more if you like!
Chili Powder – A must-have for the chili’s foundational flavor; adjust based on your preference for spice levels.
Smoked Paprika – This ingredient contributes a subtle smokiness, making your chili extra flavorful.
Ground Coriander – Complements the spices beautifully and rounds out the flavor.

For the Veggies

Onion – The aromatic base that forms the foundation of your chili; consider yellow or white onions for sweetness.
Celery – Offers a nice crunch and adds depth to the overall texture of your chili; can swap with leeks for a different flavor.

For the Liquids

Chicken Broth – Enhances richness and depth; for a vegetarian twist, opt for vegetable broth instead.
Canned Beans – Choose kidney, black, or pinto beans for heartiness; don’t forget to rinse and drain them before adding!
Diced Tomatoes – Forms the lovely base of the chili liquid; using fire-roasted varieties can give an extra flavor kick!
Honey (optional) – A touch of sweetness to balance the heat; feel free to skip it for a more intense spiciness.

Get ready to make a chili this good, and don’t forget to invite your friends over for a meal that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine shredded rotisserie chicken with dill pickle juice and the seasoning blend, which includes cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and other spices. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure it’s well-coated in the marinade. Set this flavorful mixture aside while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Heat a tablespoon of butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma. This will create a delicious base for your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir the marinated chicken into the sautéed vegetables in the Dutch oven. Then, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the rinsed canned beans and diced tomatoes. If desired, drizzle in honey for a hint of sweetness. Blend everything together thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed to create a harmonious flavor profile.

Step 4: Simmer
Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. As the chili cooks, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a robust and spicy chili.

Step 5: Serve
After simmering, ladle the Nashville Hot Chicken Chili into warm bowls. For an added touch, top each serving with sliced dill pickles and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Serve alongside cornbread or warm rolls for a comforting meal that’s sure to please, showcasing the delightful flavors of this unique dish.

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The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to make this chili your own by exploring these fun and flavorful twists!

Turkey Swap: Use shredded turkey in place of chicken for a lighter, yet equally delicious option. Leftover turkey from the holidays works perfectly here!
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken entirely and load up with extra beans, lentils, or hearty vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, using vegetable broth for richness.
Extra Spicy: If you’re a heat lover, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños for a fiery kick. A drizzle of hot sauce can also amp up the heat!
Sweet Balance: Swap honey for maple syrup for a different subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiciness.
Smoky Flavor: Try adding a couple of teaspoons of chipotle powder or smoked paprika to complement the chili with a smoky twist.
Liquid Gold: Replace the chicken broth with a refreshing beer or hard cider for a unique flavor depth. It adds a nice tang to your chili!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of cream or Greek yogurt before serving to create a rich and creamy texture that balances the chili’s heat.
Fire-Roasted Goodness: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones for an extra smoky, slightly sweet flavor that elevates your chili to new heights.

Discovering ways to customize your chili can lead to your family’s new favorite meal! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss my delicious Cheesy Chicken Broccoli casserole or the zesty Grilled Chicken Skewers for perfectly seasoned options!

Expert Tips for The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Marinate Wisely: Allow shredded chicken to soak in dill pickle juice longer for a deeper flavor infusion; even a few hours can enhance the taste.
Heat Adjustment: Start with 2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper and adjust according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tough to tone down the heat.
Crockpot Option: For convenience, combine all ingredients in a crockpot; cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours to let flavors develop beautifully.
Texture Magic: For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, you can always add more chicken broth for the best Nashville hot chicken chili consistency.
Serve with Style: Get creative with toppings—sliced pickles, fresh herbs, or crumbled cheese add delicious contrasts to the spicy flavors.
Meal Prep Mastery: This chili is perfect for batch cooking! Store in airtight containers and freeze for quick meals that can be reheated easily.

Make Ahead Options

These Nashville Hot Chicken Chili options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the marinated chicken up to 24 hours in advance by combining shredded rotisserie chicken with dill pickle juice and spices, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the onion and celery and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days to speed up your prep time. When you’re ready to enjoy, sauté the vegetables, mix in the marinated chicken, add the remaining ingredients, and let the chili simmer as usual. This way, you’ll still have a comforting, flavorful dish without the hassle on hectic weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Fridge: Keep leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 4 months. Label and date them for easy identification when you’re craving the best Nashville hot chicken chili!

Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to refresh the consistency.

Make-Ahead: This chili is perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal on busy nights!

What to Serve with Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Cozying up with a bowl of Nashville Hot Chicken Chili brings so much joy, but pairing it with the right sides elevates the experience even further.

Creamy Cornbread: The subtle sweetness and soft texture of cornbread balance the heat, making it a perfect complement to your chili.
Hawaiian Rolls: These soft, sweet rolls are wonderful for mopping up every last drop of chili, adding an enjoyable contrast to the spice.
Sliced Dill Pickles: A crunchy, tangy topping that amplifies the Nashville hot chicken flavor, cutting through the chili’s richness beautifully.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: These cool, creamy toppings offer a refreshing contrast to the vibrant spice, enhancing every flavorful bite.
Tortilla Chips: Their crunchiness provides a delightful texture against the hearty chili, and they can be dipped for an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cools down the spice while perfectly complementing your comforting dish—ideal for summer gatherings.

Enjoy the magic of flavor harmony by mixing and matching these delicious pairings with your Nashville hot chicken chili for a feast that your family will cherish!

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The Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for this chili?
Absolutely! I recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. It saves time, and you can easily shred it to mix into your chili. If you don’t have rotisserie on hand, any cooked chicken will work, but be sure to season it well to get that vibrant Nashville flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
For sure! Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. It’s so comforting, you’ll wish you made extra!

Can I freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili? How?
The more the merrier! You can freeze this chili for up to 4 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Label and date them for easy identification. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of chicken broth to refresh the consistency if needed.

How do I make this chili less spicy for kids or for a milder taste?
Very! You can start with just 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper instead of 2, which will still give it flavor without overwhelming heat. You can also consider serving sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side—they make great neutral toppings to cool down the spiciness!

What can I substitute for dill pickle juice if I don’t have any?
No problem! If you don’t have dill pickle juice, you can use homemade pickle brine (just as tasty) or even apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of water for the tanginess. Alternatively, with the right spices, a splash of lemon juice will do, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken entirely and use a variety of beans such as chickpeas and black beans instead. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty chili that still packs a punch in flavor!