Best White Chicken Chili: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on the traditional chili dish. This creamy, comforting recipe combines tender chicken, hearty white beans, and zesty green chilies, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for chilly nights, gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, this chili promises to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Chili

This White Chicken Chili is not only delicious, but it also offers several benefits. First, it is packed with protein from the chicken and beans, making it a satisfying meal. Second, the creamy texture makes it indulgent, while the spices provide a comforting warmth. Third, it’s a quick White Chicken Chili meal that can be made in just 45 minutes. Fourth, it’s gluten-free, catering to many dietary needs. Fifth, you can customize it easily with toppings or add-ins. Finally, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy meals ready for busy days. Enjoy this easy White Chicken Chili for its convenience and flavor!

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili

Gather these items:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make White Chicken Chili Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in the white beans, diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
  6. Step 6: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  7. Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  8. Step 8: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as desired.
  9. Step 9: Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect White Chicken Chili

Keep these in mind:

  • This chili is best served hot.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
  • For a spicy White Chicken Chili, add extra diced green chilies or jalapeños.
  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

Best Ways to Serve White Chicken Chili

For the ultimate chili experience, consider serving your White Chicken Chili with:

  • Warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips.
  • A dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese for a flavor boost.

How to Store and Reheat White Chicken Chili

To store, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. This recipe is also perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Chicken Chili

What’s the secret to perfect White Chicken Chili?

The secret lies in balancing flavors. Use fresh ingredients like onion and garlic, and don’t forget to adjust the spices to your preference for a truly flavorful White Chicken Chili recipe.

Can I make White Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this Creamy Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together. Just reheat before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with White Chicken Chili?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you don’t overcook the chicken, which can make it tough. Also, taste as you go to adjust seasoning; this is key to a great White Bean Chicken Chili.

Variations of White Chicken Chili You Can Try

Here are a few variations to keep your meals exciting:

  • Slow cooker White Chicken Chili: Prepare all ingredients in your slow cooker for an easy, hands-off approach.
  • White Chicken Chili with corn: Add corn for sweetness and texture.
  • Gluten-free White Chicken Chili recipe: All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Best White Chicken Chili: 7 Reasons You'll Love It - White Chicken Chili - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Sliced Bread Ciabatta or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.

Best White Chicken Chili: 7 Reasons You'll Love It - White Chicken Chili - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of beans, visit Healthline.

To learn more about the nutritional benefits of chicken, check out this study.

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Best White Chicken Chili: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

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Best White Chicken Chili: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the white beans, diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
  6. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  8. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as desired.
  9. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • This chili is best served hot.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Hi! I’m Margaret!

A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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