White Chili Chicken Recipe: White chili chicken is a flavorful twist on traditional chili recipes, swapping out red sauce and ground beef for a creamy, spiced broth with tender shredded chicken and white beans. This hearty, comforting dish has grown in popularity across the U.S., especially during the colder months. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings, offering a warm bowl of deliciousness everyone will love.
Why You Should Try White Chili Chicken
Why choose white chili over regular chili? For one, it offers a rich, zesty flavor that’s both hearty and light. The combination of cumin, garlic, and green chilies gives it a bold kick, while creamy beans add a satisfying texture. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate lean protein and fiber into your diet. Perfect for both quick meals and meal-prepping, white chili chicken is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed for White Chili Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this savory dish.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of white beans (cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 (4-ounce) cans of diced green chilies
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn
- ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream for extra creaminess
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional Tools:
- Slow cooker (if you want to make this a set-it-and-forget-it meal)
- Ladle for easy serving
- Immersion blender (for thickening the chili if desired)
Preparation Tips Before You Start Cooking
Preparation is key to a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you should do before you fire up the stove.
- Prep the Chicken: Trim any excess fat and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Rinse and Drain the Beans: If using canned beans, rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium. For dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender.
- Organize Your Ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients beforehand. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and set everything within easy reach. This will help you avoid scrambling mid-recipe!
How to Make White Chili Chicken – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken. You have a few options here depending on your preference:
- Boiling Method: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chicken for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Sautéing Method: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot and sear the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics (Onions, Garlic, Peppers)
Next, it’s time to build the flavor base. Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute. At this stage, you can also add diced green chilies for a burst of heat and tang.
Step 3: Adding Broth and Spices
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add your spices: cumin, oregano, and a touch of chili powder. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The spices should immediately infuse the broth with an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Adding Beans and Other Ingredients
Once the broth is seasoned, it’s time to add the beans and any other desired ingredients like corn. Stir well and allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Simmering the White Chili
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes. During this time, the broth will thicken slightly, and the flavors will become more pronounced. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or use an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
Step 6: Tasting and Adjusting Seasonings
This step is all about getting the flavor just right. After simmering, give the chili a taste test. Ask yourself: Is it balanced? Does it have enough salt, spice, and richness? Here are a few common tweaks you might want to make:
- Too bland? Add more salt, cumin, or a squeeze of lime.
- Too spicy? Stir in a bit of cream or sour cream to tone down the heat.
- Not rich enough? You can add shredded cheese or a small splash of heavy cream.
Keep adjusting until you reach your perfect balance. Remember, it’s easier to add more seasoning than to fix over-seasoning, so adjust gradually.
Step 7: Serving the White Chili Chicken
Now that your white chili chicken is ready, it’s time to serve it up!
Plating Suggestions:
- Ladle the chili into individual bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Add a few slices of jalapeños if you like extra heat.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve your white chili with warm cornbread or buttery garlic bread.
- Pair it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
- For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh green salad.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and trust me, you’ll be glad you do), proper storage is key to preserving the flavor and texture.
Storage:
- Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- White chili freezes well! Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- For small portions, reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- For larger portions, heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Health Benefits of White Chili Chicken
This recipe doesn’t just taste good—it’s packed with nutrients too!
- High in Protein: Thanks to the chicken and beans, this meal supports muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Fiber: Beans provide plenty of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic, onion, and green chilies contain antioxidants that boost immunity.
- Low in Saturated Fat: By using lean chicken and a broth base instead of cream, this dish remains light yet satisfying.
Whether you’re aiming to eat healthier or just need a comforting meal, white chili chicken fits the bill.
Recipe Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas to customize your white chili chicken.
- Turkey White Chili: Use ground or shredded turkey instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for the chicken.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or chipotle powder to turn up the heat.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in half a cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add fresh corn, black beans, and squeeze in extra lime juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe can go wrong if you overlook certain steps. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your white chili turns out perfect every time.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. To avoid this, monitor your cooking time and shred the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Not Sautéing the Aromatics: Skipping this step leads to a bland chili. Take the time to sauté onions, garlic, and chilies to unlock their full flavor potential.
- Under-seasoning: Remember, beans and broth can dilute flavors, so don’t be afraid to season generously. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
- Skipping Rest Time: Allowing the chili to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious.
FAQs about White Chicken Chili Recipe
What is white chicken chili?
White chicken chili is a hearty soup typically made with white beans, chicken breast, green chilies, and a variety of spices. Unlike traditional red chili, it does not use tomatoes, giving it a lighter, creamier base often thickened with cheese or cream.
What are the best beans to use in white chicken chili?
The best beans for white chicken chili are white beans like Great Northern, navy, or cannellini beans. These beans have a mild flavor and creamy texture that perfectly complements the spicy elements of the chili.
Can I make white chicken chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, white chicken chili is ideal for slow cooking. Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method helps blend the flavors more thoroughly and tenderizes the chicken perfectly.
How can I thicken my white chicken chili?
To thicken white chicken chili, you can mash some of the beans and stir them back into the chili. Alternatively, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) or add cream or a cheese like Monterey Jack or cream cheese near the end of cooking.
Is white chicken chili spicy?
The spiciness of white chicken chili can be adjusted according to personal preference. It typically contains mild green chilies, but you can add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder if you prefer a spicier dish.
What toppings go well with white chicken chili?
Popular toppings for white chicken chili include sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, and tortilla chips. These add a refreshing contrast and additional layers of flavor and texture to the dish.
Can white chicken chili be frozen?
Yes, white chicken chili freezes well. Cool the chili completely and store it in airtight containers. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave until heated through.
How do I make white chicken chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of white chicken chili, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add extra beans, corn, or even tofu to boost the protein content. This version is just as hearty and satisfying as the original.
Conclusion
White chili chicken is a versatile, hearty, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a comforting dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your taste, this white chili is sure to be a hit at your table.
