Chili Bean Chicken Recipe

Name: Chili Bean Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 cup roasted tomato salsa; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1/3 cup cider vinegar; 1/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3/4 cup water; 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans; 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste; 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano; 1/2 cup sliced green onions; 8 large skinless, boneless chicken thighs

Cook Time: 90 minutes

This hearty dish combines tender chicken thighs, a medley of beans, and a flavorful sauce that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The mixture of spices and ingredients creates a rich, satisfying meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering!

Ingredients

1 cup roasted tomato salsa
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
3/4 cup water
2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans
2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
1/2 cup sliced green onions, plus more for garnish
8 large skinless, boneless chicken thighs

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for the chicken: salsa, ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, water, pinto beans, cannellini beans, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne, oregano, and green onions. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Pour the chili mixture into a 15x10-inch casserole dish. Use a spoon to ensure the beans are evenly distributed across the dish.
One by one, add the chicken thighs to the dish. Unfold each chicken thigh, toss it thoroughly in the sauce, then fold it back into a compact shape. Place the thighs evenly spaced in the dish, poking them gently into the sauce until they are nearly submerged.
Transfer the casserole dish to the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and thickened, and the chicken is fork-tender.
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Before serving, garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 682
Total Fat: 21g (27% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 6g (30% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 183mg (61% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1157mg (50% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 73g (27% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 19g (66% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 14g
Protein: 55g (111% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
Calcium: 206mg (16% Daily Value)
Iron: 9mg (50% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1709mg (36% Daily Value)

History of Chili Bean Chicken

Chili Bean Chicken is a relatively modern dish that blends classic American comfort food with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine. Its roots trace back to the mid-20th century, when casseroles became a staple of home cooking in the United States. By combining slow-baked chicken with chili-style beans, home cooks found a way to merge two beloved traditions hearty chili and oven-roasted chicken into a single satisfying meal. Over time, variations emerged, each emphasizing different regional spices and sauces.

Regional Characteristics

In the American Southwest, versions of Chili Bean Chicken often highlight smoky chiles, roasted salsas, and earthy spices such as cumin and Mexican oregano. In contrast, Southern adaptations may lean toward sweeter sauces with elements of barbecue flavor, reflecting the local preference for slow-cooked meats and tangy glazes. Some Midwest interpretations include additional vegetables or sweet peppers, creating a more stew-like texture. These regional nuances make the dish adaptable and deeply representative of local tastes.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While Chili Bean Chicken shares similarities with traditional chicken chili, it distinguishes itself through its casserole-style preparation. Instead of simmering on the stovetop, the ingredients are baked together, allowing the beans, spices, and chicken thighs to meld slowly in the oven. Unlike baked BBQ chicken or standard bean casseroles, this dish offers a unique balance of tangy, smoky, and mildly spicy notes, delivered through the combination of salsa, mustard, vinegar, and chili powder. The result is a richer, thicker sauce that coats every ingredient.

Where It Is Commonly Served

Chili Bean Chicken is often found at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinner tables. Its ability to feed a large group and its forgiving preparation method make it popular for weekend meals, small celebrations, and rustic outdoor dining. Some modern American cafs and comfort-food restaurants also include variations of the dish on their seasonal menus, especially during colder months when hearty meals are in demand.

Interesting Facts

One intriguing aspect of Chili Bean Chicken is its versatility: it can be served as a main dish, a filling for tacos, or even spooned over rice or cornbread. The combination of pinto and cannellini beans not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a nutritionally robust profile. Another fun fact is that the casserole format allows the chicken thighs to remain exceptionally tender, as they cook almost fully submerged in the chili mixture. This method has become a favorite among home cooks who appreciate minimal hands-on time with maximum flavor payoff.

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FAQ about Chili Bean Chicken Recipe

Yes, you can substitute the pinto and cannellini beans with other varieties of beans such as kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas. Keep in mind that different beans may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Yes, this dish freezes well. After cooling, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

This dish pairs well with a side of cornbread, steamed rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Bone-in thighs generally take longer to cook, so you might need to add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before. Simply assemble the ingredients, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, bake it according to the recipe instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold dish.

To adjust the spiciness, you can increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne, or substitute with a mild chili powder. For a spicier version, you can add more cayenne or even fresh chopped jalapeños.

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a little bit of honey. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still add a savory depth to the dish.

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken thighs and using a plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh, or just focusing on the beans and vegetables. You may also want to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.