Name: White Chicken Chili: Easy Comfort Food with Turkey Bacon Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp. neutral oil (preferably vegetable or sunflower); 1 jalapeño (seeded, finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1 tsp. ground cumin; 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thirds); 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 (4.5-oz.) cans green chiles; Kosher to taste salt; Freshly ground to taste black pepper; 2 (15-oz.) cans white beans (drained, rinsed); 1.5 cups frozen corn; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 avocado (thinly sliced, for serving); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for serving); 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips (for serving); 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack (for serving)

Introduction to White Chicken Chili

Why White Chicken Chili? The Perfect Homemade Meal

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, you’ve just stumbled upon a gem: white chicken chili. Unlike your typical red chili, this version boasts tender chicken, creamy beans, and a delightful kick from jalapeños and green chiles. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your hunger, yet light enough to feel good about indulging in seconds.

Imagine bustling through a weeknight and realizing you still want to put a delicious meal on the table. That’s where this recipe shines! With prep taking only 15 minutes and the total cook time under an hour, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Plus, just like our popular homemade chicken noodle soup, this chili is great for meal prep and is perfect for leftovers.

Whether you’re cozying up for an evening in or hosting a game day get-together, this white chicken chili fits the bill. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Chili

Creating the ultimate white chicken chili starts with some essential ingredients that deliver a satisfying blend of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Neutral Oil: Opt for vegetable or sunflower oil for a mild base. Extra virgin olive oil works too!
Jalapeño: Adds just the right amount of heat; feel free to leave it out if you're sensitive to spice.
Chicken Breasts: Fresh, chopped into bite-sized pieces, are ideal—don’t hesitate to use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Chicken Broth: Choosing low-sodium broth helps you control the saltiness.
Green Chiles: Canned green chiles contribute rich flavor without overwhelming heat.
White Beans: Cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans are all perfect choices.
Corn: Frozen corn saves time and works well in this dish.
Sour Cream: This provides creaminess and thickens the chili beautifully.

Optional Toppings to Enhance Your Chili Experience

Toppings can elevate your white chicken chili from good to extraordinary! Here are some delightful options to consider:

Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle adds a burst of freshness.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, they’re a must!
Monterey Jack Cheese: Melting a handful on top brings extra creaminess.
Avocado Slices: Bringing creaminess, they also pack in nutrients.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the entire dish.

Feel free to mix and match your toppings to create a personalized chili experience! Looking for more recipe inspiration? Check out these easy chili variations for a tasty twist.

Preparing White Chicken Chili

Making a delicious white chicken chili is a straightforward process, perfect for a cozy night in or game day! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft this tasty dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into making your chili, it’s essential to have everything at your fingertips. For this hearty dish, you'll need:

Neutral oil (vegetable or sunflower)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
Spices: 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon ground cumin
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thirds
5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
2 cans of green chiles
2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
1.5 cups frozen corn
½ cup sour cream for creaminess
Toppings: avocado, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, shredded Monterey Jack

Having everything ready not only makes the process smoother but also ensures you don’t miss any ingredients for your white chicken chili.

Cook the Aromatics

Begin by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onions and jalapeños, cooking until softened, which should take about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and cumin, letting them cook for about a minute until they release a fragrant aroma. These aromatic ingredients form the flavorful base of your chili.

Add the Chicken and Broth

Once your aromatics are ready, add the chicken pieces, chicken broth, and green chiles to the pot. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper! Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Shred the Chicken

After the chicken has cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it cool slightly. Once it’s manageable, shred the chicken using two forks. If you're in a hurry, you could also use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for added convenience.

Incorporate the Beans and Corn

Back to the pot! Add your white beans and bring the chili to a simmer again. For that perfect texture, mash about a quarter of the beans using a wooden spoon. This thickens the chili beautifully. After a few minutes, add the corn and shredded chicken back to the pot, cooking until warm throughout.

Mix in the Sour Cream

Now comes the secret to making your white chicken chili extra creamy! Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream. If you like your chili even creamier, feel free to throw in some shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a delightful finish.

Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings—avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and maybe some crushed tortilla chips for that extra crunch. This inviting meal is best enjoyed warm and shared with loved ones.

And there you have it! A cozy bowl of white chicken chili ready for you to savor. Happy cooking!

Variations of White Chicken Chili

Vegetarian White Chicken Chili

For a delightful twist on the classic, try a vegetarian white chicken chili. Simply swap out the chicken for an extra can of beans—like pinto or chickpeas—to add heartiness. Use vegetable broth as your base, and you still get all that comforting flavor without the meat. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like cilantro, avocado, or even crispy tortilla strips for an extra crunch. This variation ensures that everyone can enjoy a hearty bowl, no matter their dietary preferences.

Spicy Creamy Gochujang White Chicken Chili

If you're in the mood for something with a kick, check out spicy creamy gochujang white chicken chili. This version incorporates gochujang, a Korean chili paste that infuses the chili with a unique depth of flavor and delightful heat. Combine this with your usual ingredients and a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess. You'll end up with a warming bowl that’s perfect for cozy nights. Want to learn more about incorporating global ingredients into your cooking? Check out this guide on international spices.

Variations of white chicken chili allow you to explore a spectrum of flavors while still keeping things simple. Why stick to one recipe when the possibilities are endless?

Cooking Tips and Notes for White Chicken Chili

Smart Substitutions

Making white chicken chili is flexible! Use rotisserie chicken to save time, or swap out the chicken broth for veggie broth for a vegetarian twist. If you don’t have white beans, cannellini or great Northern beans work beautifully too. You can even add more veggies—zucchini or bell peppers can elevate your dish. Don’t forget the spices; you might enjoy experimenting with smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Making Ahead for Busy Weeknights

Planning for the week? This white chicken chili is perfect for meal prep! Cook it on a Sunday and store it in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze portions for a quick dinner later. Simply reheat and enjoy! For more info on meal prepping, check out this comprehensive guide from Food Network.

Serving Suggestions for White Chicken Chili

Perfect Pairings with Side Dishes

To elevate your white chicken chili experience, consider serving it alongside classic side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some top picks:

Homemade Cornbread: The subtle sweetness and crumbly texture balance the chili's creaminess.
Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits are perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Baked Potatoes: A baked potato topped with chili makes for a hearty meal that's as comforting as it gets.

Creative Toppings to Try

It's all about the toppings when it comes to customizing your white chicken chili! Here are some fun ideas to add a twist:

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the dish's richness.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle adds brightness and freshness to each bowl.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: For an added crunch, these are a must!
Monterey Jack Cheese: Melted cheese on top makes every bite indulgent.

Feel free to mix and match—what's your favorite combination? Let your creativity flow, and don’t forget to check out how versatile toppings can transform your meal!

Time Breakdown for White Chicken Chili

Preparation Time

Getting started on this white chicken chili is a breeze with just 15 minutes for prep. This includes chopping your vegetables and getting everything ready for cooking.

Cooking Time

The total cooking time is approximately 35 minutes. This allows for all the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender.

Total Time

In all, you’ll be enjoying your delicious white chicken chili in about 50 minutes. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for any night of the week! For more chili ideas, check out our easy chili recipes.

Nutritional Facts for White Chicken Chili

Calories

A serving of this white chicken chili packs approximately 554 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable option for dinner. With balanced ingredients, it’s comforting and satisfying without tipping the scales too heavily.

Fat Content

This chili contains about 22 grams of fat per serving. The majority comes from the addition of sour cream and chicken, offering a rich flavor while keeping it within a reasonable range for a filling meal.

Protein

You’ll find a generous 40 grams of protein in each serving, thanks to the chicken and white beans. This makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a delicious bowl of chili.

For more information on healthy eating, check out resources from the American Heart Association to help you make wise nutritional choices!

FAQs About White Chicken Chili

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this white chicken chili. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the pot with the beans and corn at the end of cooking, allowing it to warm through. It saves time and adds amazing flavor without sacrificing quality.

How Long Will Leftovers Last?

You can store your white chicken chili in an airtight container in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Can I Substitute for the Sour Cream?

No sour cream? No problem! You can easily swap in Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and similar tanginess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream for added richness without the dairy.

Explore more chili variations and helpful tips here!

Conclusion on White Chicken Chili

Enjoy Your Homemade White Chicken Chili!

In just under an hour, you can whip up a delicious pot of white chicken chili that charms everyone willing to taste it. Packed with flavor and heartiness from white beans, it offers a unique twist on traditional chili. Perfect for cozy dinners or shared with loved ones during game days—get ready to savor this delightful dish!