Details
6 People
15 mins
30 mins
This comforting White Chicken Chili is perfect for a cozy dinner night. Rich in flavor and packed with protein, it’s a deliciously creamy twist on traditional chili. As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and warmth.
White chicken chili is a delightful alternative to the red-sauce version, highlighting tender chicken, beans, and a combination of spices that create a hearty yet flavorful meal. I love preparing this dish on weeknights or during gatherings with friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, whether you choose to cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
This recipe can be as spicy or mild as you prefer, making it customizable for your taste buds. You can serve it with toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños to suit everyone’s preference. The creamy texture, combined with the savory chicken and beans, creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. I find myself returning to this recipe time and again, especially when craving something warm and delightful.
Tips for the Best White Chicken Chili
- Use Leftover Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe, saving you time and effort.
- Adjust the Spiciness: Feel free to add more green chilies or jalapeños if you like heat, or use milder varieties if you prefer less spice.
- Make It Ahead: This chili keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prepping.
- Freeze for Later: Consider freezing it in portions; it makes for an easy meal when you’re short on time.
How to Make White Chicken Chili
The preparation for White Chicken Chili is simple and straightforward, which is one of the reasons I love it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, cook the chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and no longer pink in the center. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté the Flavors: In the same pot, add a bit of olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, and any other veggies you prefer, like bell peppers. Cook until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, broth, and spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer: Let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and create a rich, satisfying broth.
- Add Cream: Just before serving, stir in the cream for that creamy, comforting finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
That’s it! You now have a pot of comfort food ready to be enjoyed.
Topping Ideas for White Chicken Chili
This dish is fantastic on its own but can be elevated even further with savory toppings. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and a fresh zing.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices take the texture to the next level and add healthy fats.
- Shredded Cheese: A handful of shredded cheese – Monterey Jack or cheddar works nicely – can add extra flavor.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a nice crunch and a hint of onion flavor.
- Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, sliced jalapeños make a bold addition.
With these toppings, each bowl of White Chicken Chili can be customized to your liking, turning it into a personalized masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love White Chicken Chili
One of the reasons I adore White Chicken Chili is its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or what suits your dietary needs. Want it dairy-free? Substitute coconut milk for the cream. Prefer a vegetarian option? Just swap the chicken for more beans and add additional veggies. This chili is a fantastic way to sneak in more vegetables while providing a satisfying meal.
Not only is this chili comforting, but it’s also an excellent source of protein. The combination of chicken and beans makes it a filling option that keeps me energized throughout the day. I often make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether served with a side of cornbread or enjoyed on its own, White Chicken Chili shines as a wholesome meal.
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Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
3 cups white beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
4 cups chicken broth For a thinner chili, add more chicken broth.
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust seasoning as needed.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
1 cup sour cream
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
To taste fresh cilantro for garnish
To taste avocado diced, for serving
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream and corn, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Add lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and diced avocado.
Nutrition Information
This White Chicken Chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
- Protein: 25-30 grams from the chicken and beans
- Fat: About 10-15 grams, mainly from the cream
- Carbohydrates: Around 30 grams, primarily from the beans
It’s a wholesome dish that provides a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates!
Serving Suggestions
White Chicken Chili can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- With Cornbread: Complement your chili with a side of warm cornbread or cornbread muffins to soak up the delicious broth.
- Over Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
- With Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the chili with crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
These pairing options enhance the experience of enjoying White Chicken Chili, making every bite a joy!
Storing and Reheating
Storing White Chicken Chili is simple and convenient. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick after storage, adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore its desired consistency.
Variations to Consider
While I cherish the traditional version of White Chicken Chili, there are several ways to spice things up:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or more beans and load up on veggies like zucchini and corn.
- Spicy Chicken Chili: Add extra spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
- Cheesy Chili: Stir in some cream cheese or shredded cheese for an even creamier texture.
These variations allow you to explore different flavors while still enjoying the core essence of this chili.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love making White Chicken Chili because it’s comforting, simple, and incredibly satisfying. Whether for a hustling weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, it never fails to impress. The ease of preparing this dish allows me to focus on enjoying the time spent with loved ones around the table. Plus, the leftovers make for excellent lunches or cozy meals throughout the week!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, White Chicken Chili freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Definitely! Cooked turkey works great in this recipe.
Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese toppings.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Yes! Feel free to add corn, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
