Quick Fix: Chicken and mushrooms lighten up chili

This easy one-pot chili is perfect for a couple or a crowd. Chili is always a family pleaser. Using chicken and mushrooms gives a light, tasty result. All of the ingredients cook in a large skillet. It's a meal on its own, or serve quick-cooking rice and a ready-to-eat salad on the side.

Mushrooms give texture and flavor to the dish. This recipe is mildly hot. Serve hot pepper sauce on the side for those who want to adjust the heat.

The chili keeps well and can be frozen. Make extra and save for another quick meal.

Wine suggestion: An earthy pinot noir would be a good match for the mushrooms in this dish.

Tips: Any type of mushroom can be used. Buy them sliced, or slice them in a food processor fitted with a thick slicing blade. Chicken breast or turkey can be substituted for chicken thighs. Two crushed garlic cloves can be substituted for minced garlic.

SPICY MUSHROOM AND CHICKEN CHILI

2 teaspoons canola oil

3⁄4 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

2 cups low-sodium, canned, diced tomatoes with their juice

1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced (about 1 tablespoon)

1 cup drained and rinsed canned red kidney beans

1 cup frozen corn

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1⁄2 pound sliced white mushrooms (about 3 cups)

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

2 slices crusty, multi-grain bread, toasted

Preparation

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on all sides about two minutes. Add tomatoes, jalapeno, beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic and mushrooms. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat to medium-low.

Simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes, adding a little water if it becomes too dry. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle chili with cilantro, and serve with garlic toast on the side. Makes two servings.

Linda Gassenheimer is the author of 14 cookbooks including her newest, "The Flavors of the Florida Keys" and "Mix 'n Match Meals in Minutes for People with Diabetes." Visit Linda on her web page at DinnerInMinutes.com or e-mail her at Linda@DinnerInMinutes.com.