White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

This white bean chicken chili recipe is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy beans, and sweet corn in a flavorful broth. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this chili stands out with its delightful balance of spices and textures. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or hosting friends, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a hearty main course or pair it with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, this chili is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious white bean chicken chili recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well and is perfect for simmering soups and stews evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, it helps mix ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key in cooking; these ensure you add just the right amount of each ingredient.
• Measuring spoons: Great for small quantities of spices, they help maintain flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

This white bean chicken chili recipe features an array of wholesome ingredients that contribute to its delicious flavor.

Protein and Vegetables

• 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)

Beans and Corn

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

Broth and Spices

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

Creamy Finish

• ½ cup heavy cream
• Chopped cilantro, optional

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Onion

Add the cubed chicken and diced onion to the pot. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and 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. Stir everything together.

Step 5: Simmer

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

Step 6: Add Cream

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream along with chopped cilantro if desired.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Serving white bean chicken chili is a delightful experience that allows you to customize each bowl to your taste. This dish pairs well with various toppings and sides, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Toppings

• Avocado – Creamy slices of avocado add richness and balance the spices.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a tangy contrast that complements the chili.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro gives a burst of herbal flavor that brightens the dish.
• Shredded Cheese – Melted cheese on top adds extra creaminess and depth.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chili or adding a textural contrast.

Sides

• Cornbread – Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for a heartier meal option.
• Salad – A fresh green salad offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of chili.

How to Perfect White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Perfecting your white bean chicken chili can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will provide brighter flavors compared to dried or canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify the amount of cumin, oregano, and chili powder to suit your heat preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor – Letting the chili simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully; just be sure to adjust liquid levels if needed.
• Experiment with Broth – Opt for homemade chicken broth for richer flavor or add vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Add More Veggies – Include diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with white bean chicken chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly, cornbread is an ideal accompaniment that soaks up all the delicious broth.
2. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs adds a lovely texture and flavor balance to the meal.
3. House Salad – A simple house salad with crisp greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies bring smoky flavors that complement the chili’s warmth.
5. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy and buttery element that’s hard to resist.
6. Mexican Street Corn Salad – This creamy corn salad adds sweetness and zest, making it a perfect pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this white bean chicken chili recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the chicken and onion enhances flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until golden brown.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is crucial for flavor. Choose a good-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you go! Each ingredient varies in strength, so adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
• Overcooking the beans: Cooking beans too long can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skip them—try avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips for an extra kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey is a great substitute and works well in this white bean chicken chili recipe.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños before cooking. Adjust based on your spice preference!

What sides pair well with white bean chicken chili?

Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use different beans?

Absolutely! While great northern beans are recommended, you can try navy beans or cannellini beans as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This white bean chicken chili recipe is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings and spices. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, creamy great northern beans, and sweet corn in a savory broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this chili brings together a delightful blend of spices and textures that will leave everyone satisfied. With its quick preparation time and ability to customize toppings, it’s an ideal choice for any culinary occasion. Whether you serve it as a hearty main dish or pair it with crunchy tortilla chips, this chili is sure to impress.

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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
• 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.
2. Add cubed chicken and diced onion; sauté until chicken is cooked through and onion is translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add green chiles, corn, beans, broth, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder; mix well.
5. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Remove from heat; stir in heavy cream.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like avocado or tortilla chips.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (280g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg