This white bean chicken chili recipe is a comforting bowl of deliciousness, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends and family. Packed with tender chicken, creamy beans, and a savory broth, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. It’s versatile enough to be served as a main course or as a side at parties. Plus, the combination of spices creates a flavor profile that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful chili ready in no time.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The blend of spices and creamy ingredients brings out rich flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
• Healthy Ingredients: Using chicken breast and beans makes this dish nutritious while still being indulgent.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or with toppings like avocado or tortilla chips for added texture.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best white bean chicken chili recipe, having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups and stews evenly without burning.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for quick chopping of ingredients, making prep easier.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables and meat.
• Can opener: Essential for opening canned beans and chiles quickly.

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Ingredients

This white bean chicken chili recipe is a delicious blend of tender chicken, creamy beans, sweet corn, and a flavorful broth and spice blend.

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)

Additional Ingredients

• 2 cans green chiles
• 1½ cups canned (drained) or frozen corn
• 2 (15.9-ounce) cans great northern beans, drained

Seasonings and Broth

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1½ teaspoon cumin

Final Touches

• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Chopped cilantro, optional

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

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 onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the green chiles, corn, great northern beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Remove from heat, then stir in heavy cream. If desired, add chopped cilantro for extra freshness.

Step 7: Serve

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

Enjoy your comforting bowl of white bean chicken chili!

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving your white bean chicken chili can enhance the dining experience for everyone at the table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your chili even more enjoyable.

Toppings

• Avocado – Adds creaminess and a fresh flavor to each bowl.
• Sour Cream – A classic choice that provides a tangy contrast.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a burst of flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – Melting cheese on top creates a deliciously gooey texture.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips offer a satisfying texture and make for great scooping.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with chili.
• Rice – Serve over warm rice for a filling meal option.
• Salad – A side salad adds freshness and balances the hearty chili.

How to Perfect White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

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

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the flavors compared to canned options.
• Adjust the spices – Feel free to increase or decrease spices based on your taste preference.
• Slow cook for depth – For richer flavor, let it simmer longer or use a slow cooker.
• Add more veggies – Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your white bean chicken chili can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the chili and adds a comforting touch.
2. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy side that complements the richness of the chili.
3. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and acidity provide a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that adds texture and nutrition.
5. Baked Potatoes – A filling side that can be topped with leftover chili for extra flavor.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies enhance the overall taste of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best white bean chicken chili, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the chicken and onions can lead to a bland flavor. Ensure you cook these ingredients until they are golden and fragrant.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can result in a dull dish. Be generous with spices like cumin and chili powder to elevate the flavor profile.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry. Monitor your cooking time closely to keep the meat tender.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality canned beans or broth can affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality or homemade versions for better results.
• Neglecting Toppings: Skipping toppings can make your chili less enjoyable. Consider garnishing with avocado, cilantro, or cheese for added richness and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, covered.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this white bean chicken chili recipe.

Can I use other types of beans in this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute great northern beans with other varieties like navy beans or cannellini beans for different textures and flavors.

How can I make this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe spicier?

Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to increase the heat level according to your preferences.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based protein such as tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe in advance?

Yes! This chili tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This white bean chicken chili recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust spices and toppings based on your personal preference. Give it a try; you’ll love how easily you can customize it to suit any occasion!

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White Bean Chicken Chili

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights and gatherings. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a savory broth, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. The delightful combination of spices creates a rich flavor profile that will impress your family and friends. Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, you can enjoy this nutritious dish on its own or topped with fresh avocado or crispy tortilla chips for added texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 cans green chiles
• 1½ cups canned 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 until shimmering.
2. Add cubed chicken and diced onion; sauté until the chicken is no longer pink and onions are translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add green chiles, corn, great northern beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder; stir well.
5. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Remove from heat; stir in heavy cream. Optionally garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra depth of flavor, consider slow cooking the chili for longer or adding bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition. Adjust spice levels by increasing the amount of chili powder or adding jalapeños if you prefer more heat.