The aroma of smoky barbecue wafts through the air, mingling with the rich, spicy scent of chili, creating a mouthwatering experience that beckons you closer. cozy dinner in a pumpkin Imagine diving into a bowl of Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili, where tender chicken meets hearty beans and a melody of spices dances on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this Sweet Potato Chili recipe .
This delightful dish is more than just food; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening or the star of your next backyard gathering. It promises to tantalize your senses and bring smiles to those gathered around the table, making every spoonful a delightful adventure. perfect side dish of garlic mashed potatoes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili is ridiculously easy to prepare and full of robust flavors
- You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste perfectly
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal or with cornbread for that classic pairing
Sharing this chili recipe always brings laughter, especially when friends fight over who gets the last bite—it never fails to impress.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Using about 3-4 chicken breasts ensures a juicy base for this flavorful chili.
- Canned Beans: A mix of black, kidney, and pinto beans adds texture and nutrition; choose low-sodium versions if possible.
- Barbecue Sauce: Pick your favorite brand; it’s essential for that smoky flavor that defines this chili.
- Onion: Diced yellow onions bring sweetness; sauté them until golden for maximum flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; aim for at least four cloves for a robust taste.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute to flavor; I recommend red or yellow.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key players in creating that signature chili kick!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while adding moisture to the mix.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until the mixture is aromatic—this should take about one minute.
Add Chicken and Broth: Toss in diced chicken breasts and pour in chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer, allowing the chicken to cook through for about 10-15 minutes.
Incorporate Beans and Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in your canned beans and barbecue sauce. Let it simmer together for another 10 minutes so those flavors can meld beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Korean BBQ Short Ribs recipe.
Taste Test Time!: Give your chili a good stir before tasting; adjust seasoning with salt or pepper according to your liking.
Serve Up Your Masterpiece!: Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or shredded cheese if desired. sweet pumpkin chocolate chip bread Enjoy with crusty bread or cornbread!
This Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili is bound to become an instant favorite in your household—a warm hug in every spoonful!
You Must Know
- This Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili is a flavor explosion that warms your soul
- It’s incredibly versatile and can easily adapt to what you have
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve maximum flavor and texture, start by browning the chicken first, then sauté your veggies while the chicken simmers. This sequence ensures every ingredient melds beautifully into the chili.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this chili! Swap beans, add corn, or throw in some peppers for extra heat. Your kitchen, your rules!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring often to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs for a pop of flavor that dried herbs just can’t match
- Letting chili rest improves flavors as they meld together overnight
- Adjust spices gradually; you can always add more but can’t take them out!
Sharing this chili recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air. fall-inspired pumpkin hummus Everyone loved it, and I got requests for the recipe!
FAQ
Can I use canned beans for this chili?
Yes, canned beans save time but rinse them to reduce sodium levels.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I thicken my chili if it’s too watery?
Simmer uncovered to evaporate excess liquid or add a cornstarch slurry gradually until desired thickness.
Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a bowl of Triple Bean Barbecue Chicken Chili, where tender chicken meets three types of beans in a smoky, spicy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or backyard gatherings, promising to satisfy your cravings and ignite conversations. With vibrant colors and robust flavors, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red or yellow), diced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers until softened.
- Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced chicken breasts and chicken broth; bring to a simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Mix in the rinsed beans and barbecue sauce; simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro or cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg






