Looking for a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful? Our White Bean Chicken Chili is an ideal choice for chilly evenings. Packed with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a medley of spices, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this chili will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of White Bean Chicken Chili contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 10g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until browned on both sides.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
8. Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
9. Simmer for another 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with turkey for a lighter option, or use vegetable broth and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version. Canned beans can also be replaced with dried beans; just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand.
Serving and Pairings
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad. For an added kick, serve it with jalapeños or hot sauce. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also enhance the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This chili can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it tough; cook just until done.
- Not rinsing the beans can lead to a gritty texture.
- Skipping the sauté step can reduce flavor depth.
- Using too much chili powder can overpower other flavors.
- Not allowing sufficient simmering time can make the chili bland.
- Forgetting to season can leave the dish tasting flat.
- Not shredding the chicken properly can affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor significantly.
- Let the chili sit for a while before serving for better flavor.
- Top with avocado for creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
Is it spicy?
The spice level is mild, but you can easily adjust it by adding more chili powder or jalapeños to suit your taste.
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned chicken. Just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in burritos, on nachos, or added to a salad for extra protein.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add corn, zucchini, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Our White Bean Chicken Chili is a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a wonderful option for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!
White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans 15 oz each white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until browned on both sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
