Name: Fiery Nashville Hot Chicken Chili for Spice Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Using rotisserie chicken can save time.); 1/4 cup Dill Pickle Brine (Substitute with vinegar if needed.); 1 can Cannellini Beans (Feel free to swap with other white beans.); 1 can Pinto Beans (Kidney beans can be a suitable alternative.); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (Fresh tomatoes can lighten the dish.); 3 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian option.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots can provide a milder flavor.); 2 stalks Celery (Use green bell peppers if celery isn’t on hand.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Olive oil is a substitute for a dairy-free version.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can elevate the flavors.); 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to your preference for spice.); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or Swerve Brown (Swerve is perfect for low-carb diets.); 2 tablespoons Chili Powder (A chili seasoning mix can also be used.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used for less intensity.); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Can be omitted or swapped for cumin.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Essential for traditional chili flavor.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Taste and adjust as needed.); 1 tablespoon Honey or Pyure Sugar-Free Honey (Skip for a less sweet finish.); 1/2 cup Sliced Dill Pickles (Greek yogurt or sour cream can enhance creaminess too.); 1 batch Cornbread or Warm Rolls (Perfect for serving alongside.)

There’s a special thrill when you’ve had a long day and you discover a dinner recipe that promises both comfort and spice. Enter my Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Chili—a crave-worthy twist on the classic chili that’ll take your taste buds on a fiery adventure! Packed with tender shredded chicken, zesty spices, and a hint of sweetness, this dish is not only gluten-free but also a total crowd-pleaser that will impress your friends and family. The best part? It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Curious about the secret ingredient that gives it that unforgettable Nashville kick? Let’s dive into the recipe together and bring that bold flavor into your kitchen!

Why is Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Unique?

Spicy Twist: This chili features the iconic flavors of Nashville hot chicken, transforming the traditional recipe into a fiery delight.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it suits busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of zesty spices and sweetness makes it a favorite—everyone will want seconds!
Versatile Options: Customizable for different diets—swap chicken for beans or adjust spice levels for your family.
Convenient Cooking: Perfect for the crockpot or Instant Pot, this recipe is as effortless as it is delicious.
For another comforting option, you might also enjoy this Homemade Chicken Pot for its cozy warmth!

Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Ingredients

For the Chicken

Shredded Cooked Chicken – This main protein source adds a tender texture; using rotisserie chicken can save you time.
Dill Pickle Brine – Provides a tangy kick that’s signature to Nashville hot chicken; substitute with vinegar if needed.

For the Beans

Cannellini Beans – Creamy and packed with protein; feel free to swap with other white beans.
Pinto Beans – A hearty base that contributes to texture; kidney beans can be a suitable alternative.

For the Base

Diced Tomatoes – Infuses moisture and flavor; fresh tomatoes can lighten the dish beautifully.
Chicken Broth – The flavorful liquid base for the chili; vegetable broth can also work well for a vegetarian option.
Yellow Onion – Adds aromatic depth; shallots can provide a milder flavor.
Celery – Offers a nice crunch and freshness; use green bell peppers if celery isn’t on hand.

For Seasoning

Unsalted Butter – Enriches the base; olive oil is a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
Garlic Powder – Brings out the flavors; fresh garlic can elevate it even more.
Cayenne Pepper – Delivers the heat; adjust to your preference for spice.
Brown Sugar or Swerve Brown – Balances the spiciness; Swerve is perfect for low-carb diets.
Chili Powder – Enhances the chili flavor; a chili seasoning mix can also be used in a pinch.
Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used for less intensity.
Ground Coriander – Brightens the chili’s profile; can be omitted or swapped for cumin.
Ground Cumin – Essential for warm, earthy notes; a must for traditional chili flavor.
Salt – Elevates each flavor; taste and adjust as needed.

For Optional Sweetness

Honey or Pyure Sugar-Free Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; you can skip this for a less sweet finish.

For Garnishes

Sliced Dill Pickles – Provide freshness and a crunchy texture; Greek yogurt or sour cream can enhance creaminess too.
Cornbread or Warm Rolls – Perfect for serving alongside your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, complementing the heat beautifully!

This Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is bound to bring warmth and excitement to your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, ground coriander, and ground cumin. Stir the spices together until uniform and vibrant, creating a fragrant blend that’ll bring the fiery essence of Nashville hot chicken to your chili. This will be the flavor foundation for your dish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take the shredded cooked chicken and toss it in the dill pickle brine, ensuring it is evenly coated. Next, sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, mixing thoroughly to combine. Let this marinate for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak into the chicken for a deeper taste experience in your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies
While the chicken is marinating, dice the yellow onion and celery into small pieces for even cooking. Rinse and drain the cannellini and pinto beans under cold water, ensuring they’re clean and free of any canning liquid. These ingredients will add essential texture and flavor to the chili, enhancing its overall heartiness.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s bubbly. Add the diced onion and celery to the pot, and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, providing depth to the final dish.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Veggies
Once the onions and celery are ready, add the marinated chicken to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to mingle with the sautéed veggies. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the spices infuse the vegetables to ensure every bite of the Nashville Hot Chicken Chili is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Now, pour in the chicken broth, and add the drained beans and diced tomatoes. Drizzle in the honey for a hint of sweetness, if desired, and stir everything well to combine. The chili base should be richly colorful and full of texture at this point, coming together beautifully for a hearty meal.

Step 7: Bring to a Boil and Simmer
Increase the heat to high and bring the chili mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for about 30 minutes. This simmering time is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a deliciously rich Nashville Hot Chicken Chili.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
After simmering, stir the chili one last time and taste—adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the Nashville Hot Chicken Chili into bowls, and top with crispy sliced dill pickles and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Pair with cornbread or warm rolls on the side to balance the spiciness and enjoy a comforting meal.

What to Serve with Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?

Serve up a full meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.

Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread balances the chili’s heat while adding a warm, comforting texture. Perfect for sopping up every last drop!
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds coolness and tang, enhancing the spiciness of the chili. It’s a delightful contrast that soothes the palate.
Sliced Dill Pickles: Crispy and tangy, these pickles bring a crunch and potent flavor that pair perfectly with the warm chili. They echo the Nashville hot chicken essence beautifully.
Warm Rolls: Fluffy, buttery rolls create a comforting touch, offering a delightful side to absorb the chili’s rich flavors. A great vehicle for every spicy bite!
Roasted Vegetables: Sprinkle some roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers on the side for freshness and color. They add a light, healthy crunch that complements the dish nicely.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: These salty chips introduce a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping into your chili or enjoying as a snack while you savor each spicy mouthful.

Embrace the vibrant flavors of your meal with these irresistibly delicious pairings!

Make Ahead Options

Make meal prep a breeze with this Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Chili! You can marinate the shredded chicken in dill pickle brine and seasoning blend up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate for a more vibrant taste. Additionally, chop the onions and celery, and drain the beans up to 3 days ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the vegetables, add the marinated chicken, and incorporate the remaining ingredients before bringing to a boil and simmering. This prep strategy ensures your chili will be just as delicious, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!

Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Spice Adjustment: Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper if you’re unsure about spice levels. You can always add more later for a kick!
Cooking Method: For a slow-cooked flavor, use a crockpot! Combine all ingredients and let it cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
Instant Pot Shortcut: If you’re short on time, sauté ingredients first, then pressure cook the chili for just 5 minutes for a quick and delicious dinner.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili with cornbread or warm rolls to balance the spiciness and create a comforting meal.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge, or freeze for up to four months for a convenient meals later.

Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to get creative with your chili and customize it to your taste—the possibilities are endless!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for lentils or black beans to enjoy a hearty, meat-free chili that’s just as satisfying. With lentils, you’ll get an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of coconut milk to the chili for a luxurious, creamy texture that softens the heat. It brings a hint of sweetness and rich mouthfeel.
Spice Levels: To suit different spice tolerances, serve hot sauce or additional cayenne on the side instead of stirring it in. This way, everyone can adjust to their own heat preference!
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate a dash of liquid smoke for an even deeper smoky flavor that enhances the spice profile. A little goes a long way!
Crunchy Texture: Throw in some roasted corn for extra sweetness and crunch; it’s a delightful addition that elevates each bite. The sweet and spicy combination will dance on your palate!
Beans Galore: Feel free to mix different beans like chickpeas or great northern beans, which provide unique textures and flavors. This adds a protein punch while being wonderfully filling!
Low-Carb Swap: Use cauliflower rice instead of beans if you’re looking for a low-carb option. It takes on the chili flavors beautifully while keeping the dish light and healthy.
Sweeten the Deal: For a sweeter kick, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar; it balances the heat, creating a complex flavor that keeps you coming back for more. The sweetness is a delightful contrast to the chili’s spice.

For another comforting option, try this Homemade Chicken Pot that packs its own hearty flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezer: Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later. It can be frozen for up to 4 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the texture.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Nashville Hot Chicken Chili out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain its delicious flavors.

Nashville Hot Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

What are the best ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! The key to an exceptional Nashville Hot Chicken Chili lies in the quality of your ingredients. Choose shredded cooked chicken—using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Cannellini and pinto beans bring creaminess and heartiness; you can also swap in other beans like kidney beans. For the base, diced tomatoes and chicken broth create moisture and flavor, while aromatic ingredients like yellow onion and celery add depth. Don’t skimp on the zesty spices—cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika are essential for that Nashville kick!

How can I store leftovers, and what’s the duration?
Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. This method will keep the flavor and texture intact!

Can I freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Chili?
Certainly! To freeze your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili, portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick after thawing.

What if my chili is too spicy?
Very! If your Nashville Hot Chicken Chili turns out a bit too spicy for your taste, don’t worry—there are a few ways to mellow the heat. You can stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds creaminess and balances the spice beautifully. Adding an extra can of diced tomatoes or a bit of honey can also help tone down the heat while enhancing the flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you have any allergies or are cooking for someone who does, it’s important to read labels on your ingredients, especially for spices and broths, as some may contain hidden gluten or allergens. Additionally, feel free to replace chicken with lentils or more beans for a vegetarian option!

Can I use a slow cooker for this chili?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a slow-cooked flavor, using a crockpot is a wonderful option. Simply combine all ingredients (except garnishes) in your slow cooker and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop beautifully, leaving you with a robust and delicious chili ready to serve when you are!