This white chicken chili is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a blend of savory spices, it’s a hearty dish that’s easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping for the week, this recipe is a simple and satisfying option. Let’s get started!
Key Benefits of White Chicken Chili
This white chicken chili isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with benefits that make it a go-to recipe for busy weeks, cozy nights, and everything in between. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Nutrient-Packed: Chicken is a lean protein that helps keep you full longer, while white beans provide fiber, which is great for digestion and maintaining stable energy levels.
- Versatile & Customizable: Whether you prefer a mild chili or love a little heat, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes. Add extra jalapeños for spice, or tone it down for a kid-friendly version.
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this white chicken chili comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
- Light Yet Filling: Unlike traditional beef chili, this version is lighter, making it a great choice for those looking for a heartwarming yet healthy meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required! Cook it all in one pot or in a slow cooker, and you’re good to go. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it’s also a great way to pack in protein and fiber without sacrificing flavor. It’s comfort food that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying!
Ingredients for White Chicken Chili
Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that absorbs flavors. Can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer taste.
White Beans (Great Northern or Cannellini): Adds creaminess, fiber, and helps thicken the chili.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the chili, allowing you to control the salt content.
Diced Green Chilies: Adds mild heat and flavor, adjustable based on your spice preference.
Garlic: Provides a savory aroma and enhances the flavor of the chili.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Cumin: Adds earthy warmth and is key for the chili’s flavor.
Chili Powder: Brings mild heat and deepens the chili’s flavor.
Oregano: Adds herbal notes to balance and enhance the flavors.
Jalapeños: Optional, adds extra heat; remove seeds for a milder version.
Instructions for White Chicken Chili
Making white chicken chili is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a hearty, flavorful dish in no time!
Prepare the Chicken: Cook chicken breasts by pan-searing or baking until done, then shred it.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat oil in a pot, cook onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes, then add jalapeños if using.
Add the Spices: Stir in cumin, chili powder, and oregano to release their flavors.
Combine the Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, beans, green chilies, and broth to the pot, mixing well.
Simmer the Chili: Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to thicken and blend the flavors.
Finish and Serve: Stir in lime juice, then serve in bowls topped with cilantro.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting bowl of white chicken chili! You can serve it with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Pro Tips for Perfect White Chicken Chili
Want to elevate your white chicken chili to the next level? Here are some helpful pro tips to make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Speed
If you’re in a rush, skip cooking the chicken and use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the pot—this cuts down on prep time without compromising flavor.
Adjust the Spice to Your Taste
Not a fan of too much heat? Reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds before adding them to the chili. If you love a bit of a kick, try adding extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use Low-Sodium Broth
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to keep the chili flavorful without making it too salty. This gives you more control over the seasoning and keeps the dish healthier.
Let it Simmer for Longer
If you have the time, let your chili simmer for 30 minutes or more. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors can meld together, making for a richer and more flavorful bowl.
Thicken It Up
If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the white beans before adding them to the pot. This creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall consistency.
Top It Off with Extras
Get creative with toppings! Sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro add an extra layer of richness and freshness to each bowl.
Variations of White Chicken Chili
White chicken chili is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to make it your own! Here are a few delicious variations to try:
Add Corn for Sweetness and Texture
For a touch of sweetness and added texture, throw in a cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned). It pairs wonderfully with the creamy beans and gives your chili a hearty feel.
Make It Vegetarian
To turn this into a vegetarian-friendly dish, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a completely plant-based meal.
Creamy with Cream Cheese
Stirring in a block of cream cheese at the end of cooking makes the chili extra creamy and rich. It adds a velvety texture that’s perfect for those who love a rich, comforting bowl.
Serving Suggestions for White Chicken Chili
White chicken chili is hearty and filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal and add more variety. Here are some perfect serving suggestions to complement your chili:
Serve with Warm, Buttery Cornbread
A slice of freshly baked cornbread makes the perfect accompaniment to your chili. Its slightly sweet flavor and soft texture are a delightful contrast to the savory, creamy chili.
Top with Fresh Cilantro and Lime
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime adds a burst of freshness and brightness that cuts through the richness of the chili, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
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FAQs About White Chicken Chili
What is the secret ingredient in white chicken chili?
The secret to the creamy, rich texture of white chicken chili lies in the combination of beans and chicken broth. Some people add a splash of cream or sour cream for extra creaminess, but a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt stirred in at the end can take it to the next level, making it velvety smooth.
What’s the difference between white chicken chili and regular chili?
White chicken chili differs from traditional chili mainly in the base and the ingredients used. While regular chili typically uses ground beef and a tomato-based sauce, white chicken chili is made with chicken, white beans, and a lighter broth, resulting in a creamy, milder flavor with a hint of heat from spices like cumin and green chilies.
Is white chicken chili healthy?
Yes! White chicken chili is often considered a healthier alternative to traditional chili. It’s typically lower in fat, especially if you use lean cuts of chicken or turkey, and it’s packed with fiber from the beans. To make it even healthier, you can add more vegetables or swap in low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the salt content.
Can you add Greek yogurt to white chicken chili?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a great addition to white chicken chili. It adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, plus a boost of protein. Just stir it in at the end to prevent it from curdling, and you’ll have an even richer, creamier chili.
Can chickpeas be used in white chicken chili?
Yes, chickpeas are a great substitute for the usual white beans in white chicken chili. They have a slightly nuttier flavor and are a great source of fiber and protein. Feel free to swap out some or all of the beans for chickpeas for a tasty twist on the classic recipe.
white chicken chili
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans white beans Great Northern or Cannellini
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1-2 jalapeños
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either pan-sear them in a little oil or bake them in the oven until fully cooked (about 25 minutes at 375°F). Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. If you’re adding jalapeños, toss them in at this point and sauté for another minute.
Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and oregano, stirring to coat the onions and garlic. This will help the spices release their flavors and create a fragrant base for your chili.
Combine the Ingredients
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans (drained and rinsed), green chilies, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Simmer the Chili
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Finish and Serve
- Once the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. If you like, stir in a squeeze of lime juice for a bright, fresh flavor. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.