White Bean Chicken Chili

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken and creamy white beans. If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that can be whipped up in under an hour, look no further than this White Bean Chicken Chili! Perfect for chilly nights, this dish is not only about delicious flavors but also about nourishing your body and soul. Did you know that chili dates back to the 1800s and is rooted in diverse cultural traditions from Mexican to American? This particular recipe takes inspiration from these traditions while adding a modern twist. Unlike heavier chili recipes, this version is light yet satisfying, making it a family favorite. If you’ve enjoyed my classic beef chili before, you’ll definitely want to give this one a try; it offers a unique flavor profile that’s just as enticing. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of chili bliss!

What is White Bean Chicken Chili?

So, what’s in a name? White Bean Chicken Chili sounds inviting enough, doesn’t it? It brings to mind a warm, cozy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. But did you ever stop and think how it got its name? It’s simple, really: the dish features succulent chicken and creamy white beans, simmered together with spices to create an aromatic delight. Honestly, it could easily be dubbed “Hearty Hug in a Bowl” for its comforting qualities! Just think about it – ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ and let me tell you, this chili is a surefire way to win anyone over. Feeling intrigued? Well, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This White Bean Chicken Chili

This White Bean Chicken Chili is a star in its own right, and here’s why: First off, the highlight of this dish is definitely the combination of juicy chicken breast and velvety white beans that come together in a flavorful, aromatic broth. Secondly, making this chili at home is a budget-friendly choice compared to restaurant options – you can prepare a big batch without breaking the bank! And let’s not forget about those toppings: fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and a dollop of creamy avocado take it to the next level. If you’re a chili lover like me, you’ll also want to explore our hearty Turkey Chili, which boasts ground turkey and colorful veggies for a slight twist! Ready to create this bowl of goodness at home? Let’s get started!

How to Make White Bean Chicken Chili

Quick Overview

This White Bean Chicken Chili is simple, delicious, and satisfying – a perfect weeknight meal that can be made in 30-40 minutes. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a medley of spices, what’s not to love? You’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness ready in no time!

Key Ingredients for White Bean Chicken Chili

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, lime, and avocado for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink – about 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Beans and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed white beans. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and slices of avocado if desired!

What to Serve White Bean Chicken Chili With

To complete your meal, consider serving this chili with a warm, crusty baguette or cornbread to soak up every drop of that delicious broth. A side of fresh salad, perhaps, or nacho chips for added crunch would also complement the dish beautifully. For drinks, a chilled glass of iced tea or a light beer pairs perfectly with the flavors of this chili.

Top Tips for Perfecting White Bean Chicken Chili

Want to enhance your chili-making skills? Here are some valuable tips:

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of white beans, feel free to swap in black beans or chickpeas!
• Timing Adjustments: For a little more depth of flavor, let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes if time allows.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Ensure your vegetables are cooked through before adding your liquid; this will help their flavors infuse the chili!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Let the chili cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the chili again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this scrumptious White Bean Chicken Chili! Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply warming up on a cold day, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.

White Bean Chicken Chili

A comforting and hearty White Bean Chicken Chili made with tender chicken and creamy beans, simmered together with aromatic spices for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chili

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cans white beans (15 oz each, such as Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 each green bell pepper, diced
• 1 each jalapeño pepper, diced (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Serving

• Fresh cilantro
• Lime
• Avocado

Method

 

Preparation

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink – about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed white beans. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and slices of avocado if desired!

Notes

For variations, consider using black beans or chickpeas if you don't have white beans. To enhance flavor, let the chili simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes if time allows. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.