Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili
Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili is a rich, comforting twist on traditional chili, blending tender shrimp, delicate seafood, and a velvety, seasoned broth. Instead of tomatoes and heavy spices, this version leans into warm aromatics, mild chiles, cream, and seafood stock to create a silky, flavorful bowl that feels both cozy and luxurious. It comes together quickly yet tastes like it simmered all afternoon.
Yield
6 servings
Time
35–40 minutes
Temperature
Stovetop
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb white fish or seafood mix (scallops, crab, or cod), cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
Creamy Broth
- 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup canned or frozen corn
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1/2 block cream cheese for extra richness
Garnish
- Chopped cilantro or parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges
Instructions
1. Season the Seafood
Sprinkle shrimp and fish (or seafood mix) with salt and black pepper.
Set aside while preparing the base.
2. Build the Chili Base
Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and bell pepper; cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add green chiles, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and oregano.
Stir until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Cream
Pour in the seafood or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add corn and white beans.
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream.
If using cream cheese, add now and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the Seafood
Add shrimp and fish pieces directly into the simmering chili.
Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring gently, until the shrimp are pink and the fish is firm.
Finish with lemon juice for brightness.
5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Serve with crusty bread, rice, or tortilla chips.
Tips
- Do not boil the chili after adding seafood; gentle heat keeps it tender.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add jalapeños or cayenne for a spicier chili.
- Crab meat or lobster chunks make it even more luxurious.
Conclusion
Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili is a comforting, elevated take on classic chili, offering a smooth, flavorful broth filled with tender seafood. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for chilly nights or when you want something rich and impressive without the complexity.