by Lexi Hill

Total Time: 30 mins       Yield: 8-10 cups

 

I LOVE cooking. It’s one of my favorites activities (as is eating), but some days I’m just not feeling it. Days like that usually end with me ordering an artery-clogging patty melt or a burrito bigger than my head from fast food restaurants. In an effort to help me out on the days I don’t feel like cooking for myself, my boyfriend made a New Year’s resolution to learn how to cook so I could still have delicious, homemade meals that won’t leave me feeling nasty afterwards. I’m looking at you, Whataburger.

Here’s a recipe I have made tons of times, and have used as a way to teach my boyfriend a handful of basic cooking techniques that he can apply to dozens of other recipes. From this chili, he’s learned how to cook meat, chop vegetables, and season a dish… and it only takes about half an hour! Even for the most inexperienced cooks out there, this one is sure to produce a hearty and healthy meal that tastes AMAZING.

Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

• 3-4 boneless chicken breasts

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 2 (15 oz) cans white beans

• 2 (4 oz) cans green chilis

• 1/2 onion, white or yellow

• 3-4 jalapeños

• 4 cloves garlic

• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Pour chicken stock into a large pot, then add the chicken breasts. Cook over medium heat (5-6 setting on stove) for about 15 minutes. Check to make sure the meat is cooked all the way through by cutting into the middle of the breast. If there’s no pink on the inside, you’re good to go; if there is still pink, cook for a minute or two longer and check again. Repeat this checking process until there’s no more pink inside the chicken.
2. While you’re waiting on the chicken to cook, use this time to chop up your veggies.
3. When chicken is done, remove from the pot and shred it using your preferred method, then add it back to the pot you cooked it in.
4. Drain your beans.
5. Add beans and remaining ingredients to the pot. Simmer the chili (cook on low heat, 2-3 setting on stove) for about 10 minutes.
6. Enjoy your creation!