Verde Chicken Chili

By: @mariehealthyhill Marie Hemphill

What makes this chili extra special? Nearly everything in it is green! From the kale to the jalapeños, you’re packing in nutrients that not only taste amazing but are also good for your body. "Verde" means green, and it feels like the universe was in on the joke with this one—nature truly knows how to color-coordinate deliciousness!

With healthy fats, protein, and a boost of fiber, this chili satisfies both your taste buds and your body’s needs. It’s the perfect cozy meal to nourish you from the inside out, all while celebrating the green powerhouses of the vegetable world. So next time you're in the mood for chili, why not go green?

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs organic ground chicken, thawed
• 2 cans organic cannellini white beans, rinsed, drained
• 24 oz quality chicken bone broth (store-bought or homemade)
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup organic Dino kale, cleaned, stem removed, rough chop
• 1 large organic yellow onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño (1/2 seeds removed), diced
• 1/2 cup premade salsa verde
• 1/5 cup chopped pickled jalapeños
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 tsp thyme
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp sea salt or Celtic sea salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 2 tbsp organic olive oil

Garnishes:

• Sliced ripe avocado
• Washed, rough-chopped organic cilantro
• Sliced green onion
• Fresh or pickled jalapeños
• Fresh lime wedges
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (optional: dairy/vegan)
• Corn chips or plantain chips for that perfect crunch

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and fresh jalapeño, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
2. Add ground chicken, cooking until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Stir in cumin, oregano, thyme, chili powder, salt, and white pepper. Let the spices bloom for about a minute.
4. Pour in the chicken bone broth, salsa verde, bay leaf, and cannellini beans. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add in the chopped Dino kale and pickled jalapeños. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove bay leaf and serve with your favorite garnishes: avocado slices, cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. Pair it with some corn or plantain chips for extra crunch!

Notes:

• Add more broth to pot to change consistency and extend portions as well
• Option to take 2 cups of the made soup and blend until smooth and add back into the pot for a thicker consistency as well
• Option to use other kale or spinach if dino is not available
• Opion to use ground turkey instead of chicken

When it comes to chili, we usually picture that classic red bowl of hearty goodness. But what if I told you there’s a version that’s not only just as flavorful but also loaded with green ingredients and packed with nutrients? Enter my Verde Chicken Chili—a savory, nutritious spin on the traditional recipe that’s brimming with vibrant greens and bursting with flavor.

Why "Verde" is Your New Favorite Chili

In this recipe, we’re swapping the usual red beans and tomatoes for a fiesta of green ingredients like salsa verde, jalapeños, and kale. This isn't just a fun color change—it’s a health upgrade. Here’s why:

• Cannellini White Beans: These creamy beans are rich in fiber and protein, helping to keep you full and stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Ground Chicken: A lean source of protein, ground chicken keeps this chili light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s an excellent source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy.
• Dino Kale: Kale adds a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K, along with plenty of fiber to support digestive health.
• Jalapeños: Bring a mild heat and help to boost metabolism, plus they’re packed with vitamin C.
• Salsa Verde: Made from tomatillos, salsa verde gives the chili a tangy, zesty flavor while offering antioxidants to support immune health.
• Pickled Jalapeños: A unique twist with an added zing, these bring a pop of flavor that balances out the richness of the chicken and beans.

The Benefits of Bone Broth:

One key ingredient that takes this chili to the next level is bone broth. Not only does it add richness and depth to the flavor, but it also comes with several health benefits:

• Supports gut health: Bone broth is rich in gelatin and collagen, which can help repair and strengthen the gut lining, making it excellent for digestive health.
• Boosts the immune system: The minerals and amino acids found in bone broth, such as glutamine and glycine, can strengthen your immune response and aid in fighting inflammation.
• Promotes healthy joints: Collagen in bone broth can help maintain joint health and may reduce symptoms of arthritis or joint pain.
• Aids skin, hair, and nail health: The collagen and gelatin in bone broth support healthy skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and strengthen hair and nails.
• Improves sleep: The amino acid glycine found in bone broth has been shown to promote relaxation and better sleep quality.
• Hydration and electrolyte balance: Bone broth is a hydrating, electrolyte-rich food that can help replenish minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, especially after exercise.

With all these benefits, bone broth isn't just another ingredient—it's a powerful addition that can enhance your overall well-being. With bone broth, spices like cumin and oregano, and healthy fats from olive oil, this recipe is as balanced as it is delicious. This flavorful and nourishing chili recipe is a true celebration of greens. Give it a try and enjoy the green goodness in every bite!