Try this flavorful and creamy white chicken chili to spice up dinner time and you won’t regret it!
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EVERYONE’S FAVORITE CHILI
Chili con carne, meaning “chili with meat”, is a spicy stew that is made with chili peppers, meat, tomatoes, and often pinto beans or kidney beans. There are also different kinds of other seasonings like garlic, onions, and cumin. Did you know that this dish originates from northern Mexico.
WHAT IS WHITE CHICKEN CHILI?
White chicken chili is a type of chili con carne, a spicy stew made with chicken, white beans, and various other ingredients. It’s a variation of traditional chili, but instead of making it by using red kidney beans and beef, it is made with white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans) and chicken as the main ingredients.
INGREDIENTS FOR WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILI
White bean chicken chili recipe can also include other spices and ingredients like onions, garlic, green chilies, chicken broth, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. You can also use other vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
CREAMY DREAMY WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILLI
White chicken chili is known for its creamy texture, which is often achieved by adding ingredients such as cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream at the end of cooking. It all depends on the recipe you are following and some versions may be lighter and more broth-based.
TOPPINGS FOR CHICKEN CHILLI
This is the best white chicken chili recipe because it is so customizable as well. You can use any toppings you like, it’s often served with toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or tortilla strips for added flavor and texture. This flavorful and hearty dish is my family favorite particularly during the colder months.
WHY IS WHITE CHICKEN CHILLI SO POPULAR?
White chicken chili has recently started gaining popularity because it is an amazing version of a classic! It’s also:
It’s Different and Delicious
White chicken chili offers a refreshing change from traditional chili made with beef and red beans. You can use chicken and white beans which provide a lighter and milder flavor profile, appealing to those who don’t really enjoy the intense spiciness of traditional chili.
White Chicken Chili is a Healthier Option
White chicken chili is often perceived as a healthier alternative to beef-based chili. Chicken is lower in fat than beef, and white beans are a good source of fiber and protein. Also, this white chicken chili recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate dietary preferences such as low-carb or gluten-free diets.
Chicken Chili So Customizable
White chicken chili is highly versatile and can be customized to suit any taste. You can adjust the level of spice, add additional vegetables, or incorporate different types of beans or protein. This versatility makes it a popular choice for family meals and gatherings.
It’s a Great Comfort Food
Like traditional chili, white chicken chili is a comforting and hearty dish, especially popular during colder months. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.
It’s Easy to Prepare
White chicken chili recipes are generally easy to prepare, requiring simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. This chicken chili recipe can be made in one pot or a slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze.
Because this chili recipe is comforting, adaptable and easy to prepare, it makes this one of the best white chicken chili recipes among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
SHOULD YOU ADD BEANS TO WHITE CHICKEN CHILI?
Yes, beans are commonly added to white chicken chili. While traditional chili often includes kidney beans or black beans, white chicken chili is made with white beans such as cannellini beans or Great Northern beans. These beans complement the flavor and texture of the dish, adding a creamy consistency and extra protein. But it’s not necessary to add beans, you can make yours without them. You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Some versions of chicken chili don’t use beans at all, focusing on the chicken and other ingredients for flavor. At the end of the day, chili is chili.
RECIPE FOR WHITE CHICKEN CHILI
White Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and diced (optional, for added heat)
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts boiled and shredded into pieces
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cans 15 ounces each white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional toppings
- chopped fresh cilantro
- shredded cheese
- sour cream
- avocado slices
- tortilla strips
Instructions
- Boiled your boneless skinless chicken breasts and shred them into bite sized pieces.
- To make the recipe for white bean chicken chili, take a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Then add the minced garlic and diced jalapeno pepper and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot and cook about 1-2 minutes.
- Now stir in the cumin, oregano, and chili powder, and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans, chicken broth, and frozen corn kernels to the pot together and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
- Just before serving, stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Ladle the white bean chicken chili into bowls and serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or tortilla strips.
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