White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

This white bean chicken chili recipe is a wholesome and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, and sweet corn, it brings warmth and comfort to any table. The delightful combination of spices enhances the flavor, making it a favorite for all occasions. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this chili is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices creates a rich and savory taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese to suit everyone’s preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and chicken, this chili is not just delicious but nutritious too.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

To make this white bean chicken chili recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering, helping develop deep flavors in your chili.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables and meat, saving time in preparation.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This white bean chicken chili recipe features a wonderful mix of ingredients that create a deliciously creamy texture paired with zesty flavors.

Main Ingredients

• 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

Seasonings

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

Creamy Addition

• ½ cup heavy cream

Optional Garnish

• Chopped cilantro

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Onion

Add the cubed chicken breast and diced onion to the pot. Sauté while stirring occasionally until the chicken is no longer pink and the onion has turned translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic

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

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for the heavy cream into the pot. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

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

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Remove from heat, then stir in the heavy cream until fully blended into the chili.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Ladle into bowls and serve with optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your white bean chicken chili can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Toppings

• Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds a creamy texture that balances the spices.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream enhances the richness and provides a cooling effect.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Cheese: Shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, melts beautifully over the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chili, adding texture.

As a Hearty Meal

• Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for added substance.
• Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad can complement the chili’s warmth and spice.

How to Perfect White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

To make your white bean chicken chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavors significantly.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder depending on your heat preference.
• Slow cook for depth: Allowing the chili to simmer longer can deepen its flavors; just keep an eye on liquid levels.
• Experiment with beans: Try different varieties of beans, such as cannellini or pinto, for unique textures and tastes.
• Add acidity: A splash of lime juice brightens up the dish at serving time.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your white bean chicken chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Cornbread: This classic side is slightly sweet and pairs excellently with spicy chili.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into the chili.
3. Jalapeño Corn Muffins: These muffins provide a kick and complement the chili nicely.
4. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and contrast to the hearty chili.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal; try bell peppers or zucchini.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing brings in additional protein and fiber.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing crunch alongside the warm chili.
8. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a filling base that you can top with chili, making an enjoyable twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sauté: Neglecting to sauté the chicken and onions can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always start by sautéing these ingredients until they’re golden and fragrant.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your chili bland. Be generous with spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder for a vibrant taste.
• Forgetting the Cream: Leaving out the heavy cream will result in a less creamy consistency. Stir it in at the end for that signature richness.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Allowing the chili to simmer for too long may result in mushy beans, while not cooking it enough can leave the chicken underdone. Follow the timing closely.
• Ignoring Toppings: Skipping toppings can diminish your dish’s presentation and taste. Garnish with cilantro, avocado, or cheese for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for freezing.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe.

Can I make White Bean Chicken Chili with turkey?

Yes! Turkey is a great substitute for chicken and works well in this recipe.

What types of beans can I use?

Great northern beans are traditional, but you could also experiment with cannellini or navy beans for different flavors.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if you like it spicier.

Can I slow cook this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients (except the cream) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours before adding the cream at the end.

Final Thoughts

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different beans or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners – give it a try!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. A delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy white beans, and sweet corn creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. With warm spices enhancing the flavors, this chili is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, it’s a great option for any occasion. Plus, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy the flexibility to customize each bowl with your preferred toppings, and savor every warm bite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add cubed chicken and diced onion; sauté until chicken is no longer pink and onion is translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Combine remaining ingredients (except heavy cream) and stir well.
5. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Remove from heat; stir in heavy cream until blended.
7. Serve warm with optional toppings like avocado slices or shredded cheese.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg