White Bean Chicken Chili is a delightful dish that warms both the body and the soul. This comforting chili blends tender chicken, creamy white beans, and zesty spices, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that you can enjoy any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner to feed your family or a crowd-pleaser for game day, this chili ticks all the boxes. Its creamy texture and rich flavors promise a dish that is both nourishing and utterly delicious.
Why We Love This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
One of the many reasons to love White Bean Chicken Chili is its versatility. It easily adapts to your personal taste and dietary preferences. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, this chili is not only filling but also nutritious. The blend of spices adds layers of flavor that make each spoonful exciting. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash afterward! Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys good food, you’ll find that this chili fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Ingredients about White Bean Chicken Chili
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to create your mouthwatering White Bean Chicken Chili:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ white onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp coriander
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1 can (15.5 oz) great Northern beans, drained
- 1 can (15.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, not drained
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- Optional garnishes: cilantro, avocado, cheese, tortilla chips
How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Directions
Creating your own White Bean Chicken Chili is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these easy steps to blend your ingredients into a flavorful bowl of goodness:
- Start by Heating Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This will serve as the base for your flavorful chili.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped white onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Add Garlic: Once the onions are ready, throw in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for the next step!
- Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, oregano, coriander, paprika, and optional chili powder. Sauté this mixture for another minute. This step is crucial as it awakens the flavors from the spices.
- Combine Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the drained great Northern beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Added tomato juice will help create a robust base for your chili.
- Pour in Chicken Broth: Add in the chicken broth and the frozen corn. Make sure everything is well mixed.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add the Chicken: Here, you’ll mix in the cooked chicken. Heat it through for a few minutes, ensuring it’s warm and ready to enjoy.
- Creamy Finish: Lower the heat, and stir in the cream cheese until it melts and combines with the chili. This will give your dish a creamy texture that is simply irresistible.
- Serve: Finally, serve your chili in bowls, topped with optional garnishes like cilantro, avocado, cheese, or a few crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili
Serving White Bean Chicken Chili can be just as fun as making it. You can keep it simple or dress it up according to the occasion. When pouring the chili into individual bowls, consider layering toppings that add color and dimension. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds a hint of freshness, while diced avocado provides a creamy contrast.
For cheese enthusiasts, a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top will melt slightly into the warmth of the chili, enriching every bite. If you’re looking for an added crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side or as a topping. These options allow your guests to customize their bowls and make for a more interactive dining experience. This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or even over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
Expert Tips: White Bean Chicken Chili
To make the most of your White Bean Chicken Chili, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Use Quality Chicken: Whether you opt for rotisserie chicken or cook your own, choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: If you enjoy a kick, don’t hold back on the optional chili powder! You can also add fresh chopped jalapeños for more heat.
- Experiment with Beans: While the great Northern and cannellini beans work brilliantly, feel free to experiment with other types of beans such as navy or even black beans for a different twist.
- Cook Extra Chicken: If you’re making this chili regularly, consider cooking extra chicken during meal prep, as it will save time on weeknights.
- Garnish with Style: Elevate your chili’s presentation with colorful garnishes. Chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream can transform the bowl aesthetically and flavor-wise.
How to Store White Bean Chicken Chili
Storing your White Bean Chicken Chili is a breeze. Once it has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. Make sure to keep it in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within the next few days. The chili keeps well for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the chili in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Remember, the flavors tend to deepen over time, so your leftovers will be just as delicious as the first meal!
Variations of White Bean Chicken Chili
Part of the charm of White Bean Chicken Chili is its versatility. Here are some variations to consider for a fresh take:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition and color by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Sauté them along with the onions for a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Spicy Version: For those who like heat, try adding diced green chiles or a splash of hot sauce. This spices up the dish and gives it an extra kick.
- Creamy Spinach and Artichoke: For a twist, mix in canned artichokes and spinach to create a creamy spinach and artichoke-inspired chili.
- Taco Style: Take your chili to another level by treating it like tacos. Add corn tortillas, top with avocado, and sprinkle with cheese for a delightful Mexican-inspired version.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra beans or lentils for a vegetarian option. Tofu crumbles can also work as a great meat alternative if you’re looking for protein.
FAQ
What can I serve with White Bean Chicken Chili?
White Bean Chicken Chili pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even cornbread. Don’t forget optional garnish toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro to elevate your meal!
How can I make White Bean Chicken Chili spicier?
If you prefer your chili on the spicy side, you can add fresh chopped jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder used in the recipe. Hot sauce can also be a great addition!
Can I make White Bean Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal. You can store it in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What beans work best in White Bean Chicken Chili?
For this chili, great Northern and cannellini beans are ideal because of their creamy texture. However, you can also experiment with navy or black beans for a different flavor profile.
How do I thicken White Bean Chicken Chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans after they’re cooked or add a cornstarch slurry while it simmers.
This engaging and flavor-packed White Bean Chicken Chili recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your home. Enjoy the process and savor each comforting bite!
White Bean Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking the base.
- ½ cup white onion, chopped Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor.
Spices
- 1 tsp cumin Adds warmth and depth.
- ½ tsp salt To taste.
- ½ tsp oregano For herbal flavor.
- ½ tsp coriander Enhances the chili's flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp paprika For color and mild flavor.
- ¼ tsp chili powder Optional for heat.
Main Ingredients
- 1 can great Northern beans, drained Provides creaminess.
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained Another source of creaminess.
- 1 can diced tomatoes, not drained Adds liquid and sweetness.
- 3 cups chicken broth For flavor and liquid.
- 1 cup frozen corn For additional sweetness and texture.
- 2 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes For a creamy finish.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed Provides protein.
Optional Garnishes
- cilantro Freshness.
- avocado Creamy texture.
- cheese For richness.
- tortilla chips For crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped white onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, oregano, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Sauté for another minute.
- Stir in the drained great Northern beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Add in the chicken broth and frozen corn, mixing everything well.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Final Steps
- Mix in the cooked chicken and heat through for a few minutes.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined.
- Serve in bowls, topped with optional garnishes.
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