Warm up with a bowl of White Chicken Chili, an easy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any day of the week. This chili features tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and a blend of spices that create a delightful flavor profile. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1 can white beans (e.g., cannellini or great northern)
– 1 can diced green chilies
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (1 cup) of White Chicken Chili contains approximately:
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 7g
This nutritional information is for a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil over medium heat until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add the diced green chilies and mix well.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients.
6. Add the white beans, cumin, and chili powder.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
9. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the shredded chicken with turkey for a lighter option, or use tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, any white beans can work, and you can enhance the spice level with jalapeños or hot sauce.
Serving and Pairings
White Chicken Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad. You can also top it with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover White Chicken Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave. This chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; it enhances the flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry.
– Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
– Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
– If it’s too thick, add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Helpful Tips
– Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
– Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
– Let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight for flavors to meld.
– Garnish with fresh lime juice for a zesty kick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before shredding. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure no added gluten.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste. Adjust gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What toppings can I add?
Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro for a delightful finish to your chili.
Conclusion
White Chicken Chili is a versatile, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Enjoy a bowl today and savor the delightful blend of spices and tender chicken!

White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 can white beans e.g., cannellini or great northern
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the chopped onion in a large pot over medium heat until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the diced green chilies and mix well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Add the white beans, cumin, and chili powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.