This white bean chicken chili recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with creamy beans, sweet corn, and a rich blend of spices. Perfect for colder days or gatherings, this chili is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. It’s an ideal comfort food choice that satisfies all palates!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a warm meal ready in no time.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a robust taste that is both comforting and satisfying.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is or customize with toppings like avocado, cheese, or tortilla chips for added flair.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this recipe offers a wholesome meal that nourishes your body.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later use.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this white bean chicken chili recipe efficiently, it’s essential to have the right tools handy. The following equipment will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Canned opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: This pot is perfect for simmering soups and stews evenly on the stovetop.
- Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Measuring spoons: Accurately measuring spices ensures consistent flavor in every batch of chili.
Ingredients
This white bean chicken chili recipe features a tasty mix that will delight your taste buds!
For the Base
- 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)
- 2 cans green chiles
For the Chili
- 1½ cups canned (drained) or frozen corn
- 2 (15.9-ounce) cans great northern beans, drained
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
For Creaminess
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Onion
Add the cubed chicken breast and diced onion. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add in the green chiles, corn, great northern beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Cover the Dutch oven and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from heat. Gently fold in heavy cream and optional chopped cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, additional cilantro, cheese, or crunchy tortilla chips to enhance your meal!
How to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Serving your white bean chicken chili is a great way to elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will complement this hearty dish.
Toppings
- Avocado – Sliced or diced, avocado adds a creamy texture that balances the chili’s spice.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling effect and richness to each bowl.
- Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color, enhancing the overall presentation.
- Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle your favorite cheese on top for an extra layer of creaminess.
- Tortilla Chips – Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or crumbling on top for added texture.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread – Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Rice – A side of fluffy white or brown rice can help balance the meal and absorb the chili’s flavors.
- Salad – A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the rich chili.
How to Perfect White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
To take your white bean chicken chili to the next level, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold seasoning – Make sure to taste and adjust spices as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and onions will enhance the dish’s overall taste. Fresh herbs can also elevate flavor profiles.
- Let it simmer longer – If you have time, letting it simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully together.
- Experiment with toppings – Try different toppings like jalapeños or lime wedges for an exciting twist.
- Make it ahead of time – Chili often tastes better the next day, as flavors deepen overnight in the fridge.
Best Side Dishes for White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
Complementing your white bean chicken chili with a perfect side dish can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread – Sweet and moist cornbread is an ideal pairing that soaks up the chili perfectly.
- Garden Salad – A simple garden salad topped with vinaigrette provides freshness and crunch beside the warm chili.
- Steamed Rice – Fluffy rice offers a neutral base that absorbs flavors from the chili and keeps you full.
- Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes topped with butter and herbs as a hearty counterpart.
- Grilled Vegetables – Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that complements the soup well.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into your delicious chili broth.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips provide an excellent texture contrast when enjoyed with chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making white bean chicken chili can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the sauté step: Sautéing your chicken and onions is essential for building flavor. Skipping this step can result in a bland dish.
- Overcooking the beans: If you use canned beans, add them only towards the end of cooking. Overcooking can make them mushy and unappealing.
- Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your chili. Always opt for a good-quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor.
- Not adjusting spices: Every palate is different. Taste your chili as it cooks and adjust spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
- Forgetting toppings: Toppings can elevate your dish significantly. Don’t skip them; consider avocado, cilantro, or cheese for added richness.
- Rushing the simmering time: Allowing your chili to simmer helps meld the flavors. Don’t rush this process for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Transfer to a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a white bean chicken chili recipe.
What makes this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe unique?
This recipe combines creamy white beans with tender chicken and sweet corn, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that stands out from traditional chilis.
Can I substitute ingredients in this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily swap chicken for turkey or use different types of beans based on your preference.
How spicy is this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder or using mild versus hot green chiles. Feel free to customize it!
What toppings work well with this White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe?
Consider using avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or shredded cheese as toppings. They add great flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
This white bean chicken chili recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your tastes. Whether you prefer it spicier or want to add more veggies, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. Give it a try!
White Bean Chicken Chili
This White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly days or family gatherings. With tender chicken, creamy white beans, and sweet corn infused with a medley of spices, this chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides nourishing comfort in every bowl. Quick and easy to prepare, you can enjoy a delicious meal in under an hour. Whether you savor it on its own or dress it up with toppings like avocado or cheese, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for weekday dinners or meal prep, it’s a versatile recipe that guarantees warmth and satisfaction.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cans green chiles
- 1½ cups corn (canned or frozen)
- 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 (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Sauté cubed chicken and diced onion until chicken is cooked through and onion is translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add green chiles, corn, beans, chicken broth, and spices; mix well.
- Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Fold in heavy cream before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg