A warm, creamy chili that is easy to make and fills the house with good smells.
introduction
This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is simple and comforting. It uses chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a few spices for a mild, creamy chili you can make any night. Serve it with toppings and chips for a complete meal. For a different main dish idea to serve alongside, try this baked chicken, potatoes and green beans.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a cozy meal that is quick and filling. It needs common pantry items and little prep. The flavors are mild and crowd-pleasing. If you like bean soups, you may also enjoy this similar white bean soup with sausage for another easy bowl.
how to make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make the chili. Keep the heat medium and stir as needed so nothing sticks. For an alternate spice or meat choice, see this baked chicken idea baked Caesar chicken.
Ingredients :
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cubed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- Chopped cilantro
- Shredded cheese
- Diced avocado
- Tortilla chips
Directions :
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides, ensuring even color and sealing in juices.
- Stir in the diced green chilies, white beans, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil to combine the flavors.
- Reduce the heat and let the chili simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream and lime juice, mixing until the chili is creamy and tangy.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and/or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
how to serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Serve the chili hot in bowls. Add sour cream, cilantro, cheese, and avocado on top. Offer tortilla chips on the side or crumble them on top for crunch. For a spicier side or different protein, try a Cajun chicken side like this baked Cajun chicken thighs.
how to store White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Cool the chili to room temperature before storing. Put it in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often, or heat in the microwave in short bursts until hot. You can also freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
tips to make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
- Use thighs if you want more flavor and less chance of drying out.
- Chop the chicken into even pieces so it cooks the same.
- Taste and adjust salt after adding sour cream and lime.
- For a thicker chili, mash some beans before adding them.
- For a quicker meal, use rotisserie chicken and add it near the end. Try another easy white bean soup idea for meal plans: Italian sausage and white bean soup.
variation (if any)
- Slow cooker: Brown the chicken and onions, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in sour cream and lime at the end.
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper.
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use extra beans and vegetables like corn and bell pepper.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes. Drain canned chicken and add it near the end to heat through so it does not overcook.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No. It is mild. Use extra chilies, jalapeños, or cayenne if you want more heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make the chili, cool it, and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use different beans?
A: Yes. Cannellini or great northern beans work well.
Q: How do I thicken the chili?
A: Mash some beans in the pot or simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
Conclusion
This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is easy, creamy, and filling. It makes a great weeknight dinner with simple ingredients and tasty toppings. For another popular take on white chicken chili and extra tips, see this trusted recipe guide: White Chicken Chili (BEST EVER!) – Cooking Classy
White Bean Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the diced green chilies, white beans, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil to combine the flavors.
- Reduce the heat and let the chili simmer gently for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream and lime juice.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and/or tortilla chips.