Delicious White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights

White Bean Chicken Chili is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, flavorful chili combines tender chicken, white beans, and a medley of spices, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Originating from the Southwest United States, this chili is a twist on traditional tomato-based chili, replacing the red broth with chicken stock and creamy elements like sour cream or cream cheese. Its mild spice and rich texture make it a family favorite.

White Bean Chicken Chili

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Chicken: 1.5 pounds (use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs)
White Beans: 2 cans (15 oz each), drained (Great Northern or Cannellini beans)
Chicken Broth: 3 cups
Peppers: 2 jalapeños (optional for spice), 2 roasted poblano peppers or 1 can diced green chilies
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Cornmeal: 2 tablespoons (optional for thickening)

Spices:

Ground cumin: 1 tablespoon
Chili powder: 2 tablespoons
Cayenne pepper: 1 teaspoon (optional for heat)
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Salt and black pepper to taste

Creamy Option:

Cream cheese: 4 oz (or sour cream)

Optional Toppings:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped cilantro
Sliced avocado
Tortilla chips

Method of Preparation

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prep the Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince garlic, and chop peppers. If using fresh peppers, roast them beforehand for added smokiness.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and peppers until softened.
Cook Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked through.
Combine Ingredients: Add beans, chicken broth, cornmeal (optional), and spices to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavors, simmer longer.
Shred Chicken: Remove chicken pieces after cooking and shred them using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Creamy Element: Stir in cream cheese or sour cream during the last five minutes of cooking for a creamy finish.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with desired toppings like cheese, cilantro, or tortilla chips.

Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Tips:

Roast peppers for enhanced flavor.
Use cornmeal if you prefer thicker chili.
Adjust spices based on heat preference; cayenne can be omitted for milder chili.

Mistakes to Avoid:

Overcooking chicken before simmering; it can become dry.
Using canned beans without rinsing; this can affect flavor.
Skipping the simmering step; it’s crucial for melding flavors.

Serving Tips

Serve White Bean Chicken Chili with warm cornbread or tortilla chips on the side. Garnish generously with toppings like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Chicken: High in protein and low in fat when using lean cuts.
White Beans: Rich in fiber and plant-based protein; supports digestion.
Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C; boosts immunity.
Garlic & Onion: Contain antioxidants that support heart health.
Cumin & Chili Powder: Anti-inflammatory properties that enhance metabolism.

Interesting Facts About White Bean Chicken Chili

This dish is believed to have originated in Southwestern U.S., where chili recipes are staples of comfort food culture.
Unlike traditional tomato-based chili, White Bean Chicken Chili uses chicken broth for a lighter yet creamy base.
It’s incredibly versatile—you can make it spicy or mild depending on your preferences.

Why Everyone Loves This Dish

White Bean Chicken Chili is loved for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and customizable spice levels. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Summarized Recipe

Ingredients:

Chicken, white beans, chicken broth, peppers (jalapeño & poblano), onion, garlic, spices (cumin, chili powder), cornmeal (optional), cream cheese/sour cream.