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Keto Chili With Ground Chicken - Cozy, Hearty, And Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Ground chicken (1.5 pounds; use dark meat or a mix for best flavor)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Yellow onion (1 medium, diced)
  • Red bell pepper (1, diced)
  • Jalapeño (1, seeded and minced; optional for heat)
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
  • Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
  • Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces; look for no sugar added)
  • Chicken broth (1.5 cups, low-sodium)
  • Chili powder (2 tablespoons)
  • Ground cumin (2 teaspoons)
  • Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
  • Cocoa powder (unsweetened, 1 teaspoon; optional for depth)
  • Apple cider vinegar (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh cilantro (a small handful, chopped; optional)
  • Lime (1, cut into wedges; optional for serving)
  • Toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, avocado, sliced green onions

Method
 

  1. Warm the pot: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Soften the aromatics: Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook 5–6 minutes, stirring, until softened and lightly golden.
  3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Brown the chicken: Add ground chicken. Break it up with a spoon and cook 6–8 minutes until no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Build the base: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize slightly.
  6. Simmer: Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, cocoa powder (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce and thicken: Lower heat and simmer uncovered 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
  8. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. If it’s too thick, splash in extra broth. If you want more tang, add a squeeze of lime.
  9. Finish: Stir in chopped cilantro if using. Ladle into bowls and add toppings like cheddar, sour cream, avocado, and green onions.