White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a variety of spices, this chili is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. It’s great for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The creamy texture and warmth make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – This recipe comes together quickly in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein and fiber, this chili will keep you satisfied without feeling heavy.
• Customizable – You can adjust the toppings and spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
• Ideal for Leftovers – The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
• Nutrient-Rich – With beans and chicken as main ingredients, you get a healthy dose of nutrients in every bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this White Bean Chicken Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – This versatile pot evenly distributes heat, ensuring your chili cooks perfectly.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface makes chopping vegetables safe and easy.
• Sharp knife – A good knife helps you prep ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

This white bean chicken chili recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that combine beautifully.

For the Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed to ½-1 inch pieces
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 Tablespoons minced garlic (about 3 small cloves)

For Flavor

• 2 cans green chiles
• 1½ cups canned (drained) or frozen corn

For the Beans

• 2 (15.9-ounce) cans great northern beans, drained

For the Broth

• 3 cups chicken broth

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder

Creamy Finish

• ½ cup heavy cream

Optional Garnish

• Chopped cilantro

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook Chicken and Onion

Add the cubed chicken breast and diced onion to the pot. Sauté them together until:
1. The chicken is no longer pink.
2. The onion turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for heavy cream:
– Green chiles
– Corn
– Great northern beans
– Chicken broth
– Salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder

Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Remove from heat. Stir in the heavy cream for a rich finish. Optionally add chopped cilantro at this stage for freshness.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips for added texture.

Enjoy your delicious White Bean Chicken Chili!

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

This white bean chicken chili recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. The creamy, comforting nature of the chili pairs well with various toppings and side dishes.

Toppings

• Avocado – Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and enhances the flavors.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy contrast to the spice of the chili.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.
• Shredded Cheese – Use your favorite cheese for added richness and flavor.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping and add texture to each bite.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the chili perfectly.
• Rice – Serve over rice for a heartier meal that soaks up all the delicious broth.
• Salad – A light green salad can balance out the richness of the chili nicely.

How to Perfect White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Achieving the best version of this white bean chicken chili recipe is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer – Letting the chili simmer for an extra 10–15 minutes can deepen the flavors.
• Experiment with Beans – Try different beans like cannellini or pinto beans for variety in texture and flavor.
• Garnish Creatively – Get creative with garnishes like lime wedges or jalapeños for extra zest.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Pairing your white bean chicken chili recipe with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your chili.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and a nice contrast in textures.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy accompaniment.
4. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with leftover chili for a filling option.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your table.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Stuff bell peppers with rice or grains as a unique side that complements the chili’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a white bean chicken chili can be simple, but there are common mistakes that might affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Bold Ingredients: Using the wrong type of beans can alter the texture. Stick to great northern beans for creaminess.
• Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the chicken can make it tough. Cook just until no longer pink for tender bites.
• Bold Seasoning: Not tasting as you go can lead to bland chili. Adjust flavors according to your preference throughout the cooking process.
• Bold Liquid Ratio: Adding too much broth can dilute the flavors. Start with less and add more if needed for your desired consistency.
• Bold Garnishes: Forgetting toppings can make your chili less exciting. Enhance with fresh cilantro or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the white bean chicken chili recipe that you might find helpful.

What is the focus of the White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?

The recipe focuses on a creamy and flavorful chili made with tender chicken, white beans, and spices, perfect for cozy meals.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! While great northern beans are recommended, you can substitute with other white beans like cannellini or navy beans if preferred.

How spicy is the White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?

This recipe has a mild spice level due to green chiles. You can adjust by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños based on your taste.

How long does it take to make White Bean Chicken Chili?

The total time is about 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

This white bean chicken chili recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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White Bean Chicken Chili

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken pieces, creamy great northern beans, and a mix of vibrant spices, this chili is not only nourishing but also quick to make. In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a hearty meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week. Customize it with your favorite toppings or enjoy it as is; this chili promises satisfaction in every bowl.

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Ingredients

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• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed to ½-1 inch pieces
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 Tablespoons minced garlic (about 3 small cloves)
• 2 cans green chiles
• 1½ cups canned (drained) or frozen corn
• 2 (15.9-ounce) cans great northern beans, drained
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add cubed chicken and diced onion; sauté until chicken is cooked through and onions are translucent (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Incorporate green chiles, corn, great northern beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder; mix well.
5. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Optionally garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg