Kid-Friendly Chili

The Inspiration

“Kid-Friendly Chili” has always been a favorite in my household. The idea for this recipe came to me during one of those hectic weeknights when I needed to whip up something quick, nutritious, and, most importantly, something my kids would actually eat without complaints. The “Kid-Friendly Chili” was born out of necessity, and it quickly became a go-to meal. I remember the first time I made this “Kid-Friendly Chili”; the comforting aroma of simmering spices filled the kitchen, and I knew I had something special on my hands.

The Process

Creating this “Kid-Friendly Chili” was all about balance. I wanted to include bold flavors without overwhelming little taste buds. The ground turkey or chicken adds a mild and savory base, while the chili powder and cumin provide just the right amount of warmth without being too spicy. I find that using a mix of kidney beans and cannellini beans not only makes the chili more nutritious but also adds a variety of textures that kids love. As I stirred in the crushed tomatoes, I could see the chili coming together, thick and hearty, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

The Enjoyment

Watching my kids enjoy this “Kid-Friendly Chili” is one of the best parts of making it. They love customizing their bowls with toppings like shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. I often serve it with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice to make it even more filling. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together around the table, no matter how busy our day has been. The “Kid-Friendly Chili” is not just a meal; it’s a moment of connection, warmth, and comfort.

The Memories

Every time I make this “Kid-Friendly Chili,” I’m reminded of why I love cooking. It’s not just about feeding my family; it’s about creating memories and traditions that my kids will carry with them. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch on a cold day, this chili is a recipe that brings joy to our home. The ease of making it and the happiness it brings to my family is why “Kid-Friendly Chili” will always have a special place in my heart and kitchen.

Chef’s Notes- Kid-Friendly Chili

• Browning the Meat: Make sure to fully brown the ground turkey or chicken before adding the seasonings. This step enhances the depth of flavor and ensures the meat is cooked evenly.
• Layering Flavors: When adding the chili powder and cumin, let them toast briefly in the pan with the meat and onions before adding the beans and tomatoes. This helps to release their aromatic oils and intensifies the flavor of the chili.
• Adjusting Heat Levels: If you prefer a milder chili for kids, use mild chili powder and reduce the amount of cumin. For those who like a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Texture Balance: To create a creamier chili, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. This will naturally thicken the chili without needing extra ingredients.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this chili with a side of cornbread, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. These add-ons enhance the overall dish and make it more kid-friendly.
• Make It a One-Pot Meal: If you’re short on time, consider cooking this chili in a single large pot or Dutch oven instead of transferring it between different pans. This reduces cleanup and makes the process quicker.
• Adding Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or carrots to sneak in some extra veggies without altering the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
• Freezing and Reheating: This chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into individual servings before freezing for quick and easy meals later. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to return it to the desired consistency.

Kid-Friendly Chili

Course: Main CourseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

bowls

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

504

kcal

Total time

45

minutes

Dive into this scrumptious Kid-Friendly Chili, perfect for busy weeknights! This simple, hearty dish is packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Inspired by the flavors of Brian Baumgartner’s Seriously Good Chili Cookbook, this recipe is a breeze to make and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that’s both delicious and nutritious!

Ingredients

• Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 pound ground turkey (or ground chicken)

• Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Beans and Tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (32 oz) crushed tomatoes

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Ground Sausage Replacement: Ground turkey or ground chicken

• Olive Oil Replacement: Canola oil or avocado oil

• Kidney Beans Replacement: Black beans or pinto beans

• White Beans Replacement: Chickpeas or navy beans

Directions

• Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
• Add the ground turkey to the pan with the onions. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and cooked through, approximately 12 minutes.
• Stir in the drained kidney beans, cannellini beans, and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• nonstick pan
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 504kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 63mg
• Sodium: 1460mg
• Potassium: 1200mg
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 15IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Calcium: 10mg
• Iron: 25mg

FAQs- Kid-Friendly Chili

Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground beef is a great alternative and will give the chili a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meat.

How can I make this chili vegetarian?

You can replace the ground meat with a plant-based alternative like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or additional beans (such as black beans or pinto beans) for a hearty vegetarian version.

Is this chili suitable for freezing?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What can I serve with this chili to make it a complete meal?

Serve the chili with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.