Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe: Hearty One-Pot Meal In 7 Steps
Savor a warm, hearty bowl packed with tender chicken, beans, and zesty green chiles—perfect for family dinners or chilly nights.
Image: HearthJunction Design Team
Easy White Chicken Chili: A Comforting Classic Made Simple
Warm up with a bowl of easy white chicken chili—an inviting, flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken, creamy white beans, vibrant green chiles, and aromatic spices in a single pot. Praised for its comforting quality and ease of preparation, this chili is a favorite for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to White Chicken Chili
- Essential Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cooking Tips and Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Nutritional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Introduction to White Chicken Chili
Different from traditional red chili, white chicken chili swaps ground beef and tomatoes for succulent chicken, creamy white beans, and a blend of green chiles. This gives the dish its distinct color, flavor, and lighter texture while still offering that soul-warming chili experience. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal, this chili requires only a handful of pantry staples and can be ready in under an hour. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to white chili, this easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Each component in this white chicken chili contributes to a harmonious balance of flavors and hearty texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- White Beans: Cannellini beans are the classic choice, but Great Northern or navy beans can also be used for a creamy consistency.
- Green Chiles: Canned mild diced green chiles provide a gentle heat and signature Southwestern flavor.
- Onion: Yellow or white onions add sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic boosts the savory profile.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enriches the flavor and brings the ingredients together.
- Spices: Dried oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper create the classic chili aroma and taste.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken (cubed) | 1 lb (about 2 large breasts or 3-4 thighs) |
| White beans (drained, rinsed) | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
| Diced green chiles (mild) | 2 cans (4 oz each) |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get dinner on the table in just a few simple steps. Here’s how you can make the perfect pot of white chicken chili:
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté Chicken and Aromatics: Add the chicken pieces, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Beans and Chiles: Stir in the drained white beans and diced green chiles, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add the chicken broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust Texture (Optional): For a thicker chili, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans in the pot. This will naturally thicken the consistency.
- Final Taste Test: Check for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving.
Tip: This recipe can easily be doubled for a crowd or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Chicken Substitutions: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken can be used for an even faster version. Simply add cooked, shredded chicken after the onions are softened, and proceed with the recipe.
- Spice Level: For more heat, include a chopped jalapeño or increase the amount of green chiles. For less, opt for mild chiles and halve the amount of cumin.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in a half cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end to add richness and a touch of tanginess.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with extra beans or cubed tofu, and use vegetable broth.
- Toppings Galore: Enhance your bowl with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, fresh lime wedges, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Slow Cooker Friendly: Combine all ingredients except the beans in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, then stir in beans during the final 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This white chicken chili makes a satisfying meal on its own, but you can elevate the experience with creative accompaniments:
- Cornbread: Serve with a side of warm, buttery cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and are perfect for scooping up chili.
- Rice: Spoon the chili over steamed white or brown rice for a heartier plate.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 740mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Note: Nutritional values vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make white chicken chili ahead of time?
Absolutely. White chicken chili tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to meld in the refrigerator. Prepare the chili up to 2 days ahead, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, white chicken chili freezes well. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How can I thicken my chili if it’s too soupy?
Try mashing some of the beans in the pot with a potato masher, simmering a bit longer uncovered to reduce liquid, or stirring in a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina in the last few minutes of cooking.
What toppings go well with white chicken chili?
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh lime wedges
- Crumbled tortilla chips
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes! While cannellini or Great Northern beans are traditional, navy beans or even pinto beans can also be used, though the flavor and color will vary slightly.
Conclusion
This easy white chicken chili is a crowd-pleasing classic: quick to prepare, comforting on any night, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve it for friends during a cozy gathering or whip up a pot for your family’s busy week, its satisfying flavors and hearty texture make it a winning choice for home cooks everywhere. Enjoy every spoonful and make it your own with the variations and toppings suggested above!
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/228650/easy-white-chicken-chili/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/229949/creamy-white-chili/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16962/easy-white-chili/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/267915/best-white-chicken-chili/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13010/white-bean-chicken-chili/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
