Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about diving into a warm bowl of this chicken chili, especially with its symphony of spices and creamy finish. The addition of lime juice and cilantro at the end really brightens up the dish, making it a go-to for a cozy night in.

I enjoy preparing my Wholesome Quick and Easy White Chicken Chili when I want a cozy meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. Lean chicken breast, protein-rich white beans, and spices like cumin and chili powder are good sources of…

Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, adds depth and smoothness.
• Chicken: Lean protein source, builds and repairs muscle tissues.
• Green Chilies: Adds mild heat and vitamin C, boosting flavor and immunity.
• Cumin: Earthy spice that aids in digestion, enhances savory notes.
• White Beans: High in fiber and plant-based protein, keeps you full longer.
• Corn: Provides sweetness and essential vitamins like B6 and folate.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds zesty brightness and detoxifying benefits.

Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, tortilla chips

How to Make this Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe

1. In a big pot, warm the olive oil on medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute.

2. Put the chicken pieces into the pot, and season them with salt and pepper. Heat the pot until the chicken pieces are browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

While the chicken browns, prepare the rest of the ingredients. Work quickly to keep the cooking time down.

3. Add the diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the chicken broth and heat until simmering, scraping up any brown bits clinging to the pot.

5. Include the rinsed and drained white beans and the frozen corn in the pot. Combine the ingredients by stirring.

6. Let the flavors meld in the chili for 20–25 minutes after bringing it to a gentle simmer and reducing the heat to low.

7. Add the heavy cream and lime juice. Stir well to mix them in completely. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

8. Adjust the taste and the seasoning: add salt and pepper to your liking.

9. Take it off the heat and mix in the torn fresh cilantro.

10. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or tortilla chips.

Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Can opener
8. Ladle
9. Stirring spoon

FAQ

• Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?A: Yes, you can use precooked, shredded, or diced chicken. Just add it when the recipe says to add the chicken pieces and reduce the cooking time.
• Q: Is there a substitute for heavy cream?A: Heavy cream can be replaced by half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free, lighter option, use canned coconut milk.
• Q: How can I make this chili spicier?A: To ramp up the heat, incorporate extra chili powder, a dash of cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños.
• Q: Can I use fresh green chilies instead of canned?A: Yes, fresh green chilies can be used. Simply roast them, peel them, and dice them before adding them to the chili.
• Q: What types of white beans are best for this recipe?This chili works well with Cannellini or Great Northern beans. Either provides a mild flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. It also yields a creamy texture that makes this dish feel comforting.
• Q: How do I thicken the chili?A: The beans can be mashed with a fork or a potato masher for the thickening of the chili to your preferred consistency.
• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?A: You can freeze the chili for up to three months in an airtight container. Make sure you reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Quick And Easy White Chicken Chili Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can swap out the olive oil for a couple of tablespoons of the oil of your choice. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or even blending oil works in this recipe.
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken can substitute 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast.
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies can be substituted with 1 freshly diced jalapeño or 1/2 cup diced bell peppers for less heat.
You can substitute 2 (15-ounce) cans of chickpeas or 2 (15-ounce) cans of cannellini beans for the 2 (15-ounce) cans of white beans.
1/4 cup heavy cream can be replaced by 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt if you want a lighter option.

Pro Tips

1. Sear the Chicken Well: To maximize flavor, make sure to sear the chicken pieces until they are a nice golden brown. This will help deepen the flavor of the broth as well.