Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili.

If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that’s as simple as tossing a few ingredients into a slow cooker, then you’ve landed at the right spot! This Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili is a delightful blend of tender chicken, robust spices, and the unique bite of broccoli rabe. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this recipe will have your family begging for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this dish so special!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What truly makes this Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili stand out is its combination of flavors and textures. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while infusing the broth with rich Italian spices. The addition of broccoli rabe not only adds a beautiful green color but also brings a slightly bitter yet nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Plus, with the convenience of using a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss!

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delicious chili, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Choose thighs for extra flavor and moisture.
• 1 small sweet onion, diced – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the chili.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated – Essential for that aromatic base.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – Brings warmth and a touch of heat.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – A staple in Italian cuisine.
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice – Just a hint for warmth and complexity.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – For an extra kick.
• 1 dried bay leaf – Adds a subtle earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt + pepper or to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste – Thickens the chili and adds a rich tomato flavor.
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth – Forms the base of the chili.
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar – A tangy twist that brightens up the dish.
• 1 large bunch broccoli rabe, ends trimmed + roughly chopped – Adds nutritional value and a unique flavor.
• 1 (12 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, sliced – For a sweet, smoky flavor.
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained + rinsed – Adds protein and creaminess.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – For a rich, cheesy finish.
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley – A fresh garnish to brighten up the dish.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Crockpot – The heart of this recipe! A slow cooker makes everything easier.
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping your veggies and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients.

Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili. Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into your crockpot. There’s no need to cut them up yet; they will shred beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the 1 small diced sweet onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic until they are translucent and fragrant. This will bring out their sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the chili.

Step 3: Combine the Spices

Once your onions and garlic are ready, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of allspice, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Assemble the Chili

Pour the sautéed onion and spice mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Then, add the 1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste, 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth, and 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar. Toss in the 1 dried bay leaf, and add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Next, incorporate the 1 large bunch of chopped broccoli rabe and the 1 (12-ounce) jar of sliced roasted red peppers. Finally, add the 1 (15-ounce) can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for that extra creaminess.

Step 6: Cook

Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop!

Step 7: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Enjoy it alongside some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal!

Healthier Substitutions

• Chicken – Use skinless turkey for a leaner option.
• Parmesan cheese – Substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Cannellini beans – Swap for black beans if preferred.
• Balsamic vinegar – Use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

When making this Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Do not skip the sautéing step; it really brings out the flavors of the onion and garlic.
• If the chili is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Watch the salt; if you’re using low-sodium broth, you may need to adjust the seasoning to taste.
• If the chili is too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt to temper the heat.

How to Store & Reheat

This chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in individual servings. If it thickens too much after being stored, stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the chili?

Yes! This chili freezes beautifully. Store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I substitute for broccoli rabe?

If you can’t find broccoli rabe, you can use kale or spinach as alternatives. They will change the flavor slightly, but they will still add great nutrition!

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cannellini beans with any beans you prefer, like kidney beans or chickpeas, based on your taste or what you have on hand.

Is this chili spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce or eliminate the crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder.

Serve with These

• Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup – Another delicious crockpot option!
• Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew – Perfect for cozy nights.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen – A warm, comforting meal.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Crockpot Italian Chicken and Broccoli Rabe Chili, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an excellent way to nourish your family with wholesome ingredients. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations on social media! Happy cooking!

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