Easy White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

Looking for an easy white chicken chili recipe that feels comforting, warm, and filling? This simple dish is a popular choice for busy weeknights, cool fall evenings, or anytime you want a bowl of something hearty and homemade. Made with tender chicken, white beans, and a blend of spices, this white chili is a healthy and tasty twist on the classic red chili.

Whether cooking for family dinners or planning your meals for the week, this healthy white bean chili is a recipe worth keeping. It’s a favorite comfort food that brings together warmth, flavor, and nutrition in every bite.

WHY THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST CHICKEN CHILI RECIPES

As the temperature drops, many people turn to warm dishes that feel like a hug in a bowl. This best chicken chili recipe is a great option for cold nights, cozy weekends, or even casual gatherings. Unlike traditional chili made with ground beef and tomatoes, this version uses white beans and chicken for a lighter, healthier take.

Packed with flavor, this chili also offers plenty of protein and fiber, which helps keep you full longer. It’s also perfect for making ahead, storing in the fridge or freezer, and enjoying throughout the week.

This easy white chicken chili recipe is also very flexible. You can make it spicy or mild, use different types of beans, and even make it vegetarian if needed. It’s easy to adjust the recipe based on what’s in your pantry or what you prefer.

HEALTHY WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILI BENEFITS

• Delicious Flavor Blend: The mix of spices, chicken, and creamy beans creates a rich and comforting taste.
• Nutritious And Filling: This healthy white chili is full of lean protein and fiber, making it great for anyone looking for a satisfying meal.
• Easy To Customize: From toppings to spice level, you can change it up based on your own preferences.
• Good For Meal Prep: This chili stores well and often tastes even better the next day.

INGREDIENTS FOR WHITE CHICKEN CHILI RECIPE

To make the best white bean chicken chili, you only need a few basic ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless chicken breast is often used for this easy chicken chili recipe. You can also use chicken thighs for extra flavor or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Aromatics: Diced onions and minced garlic help create a deep, flavorful base. You can also add bell peppers, jalapeños, or canned green chiles if you want a bit of heat.
• Oil: Olive oil works well to cook the aromatics and brings out their natural flavor.
• Broth: Chicken broth gives this dish a savory, rich flavor. You can also use vegetable broth if you’re making a meat-free version.
• Spices And Seasonings: Ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and black pepper are commonly used. You can adjust the spice level as needed.
• White Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work well. They’re creamy and mild in flavor, and full of protein and fiber.

HOW TO MAKE WHITE CHICKEN CHILI AT HOME (STEP BY STEP)

Here’s how to make white chicken chili at home with simple steps:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Then add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add it to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink. Remove and shred.
3. Build The Chili Base: Add the white beans, broth, and all seasonings to the pot. Return the shredded chicken. Bring everything to a boil.
4. Simmer And Finish: Lower the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Stir in freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.
5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings.

HOW TO STORE WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILI

Proper storage helps keep leftovers safe and fresh. Here’s how to store white chicken chili the right way:

• Allow the chili to cool down before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Do not leave the chili at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze it for up to 4 months.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

Wondering what to eat with white chicken chili? There are many great side dishes that go well with this meal:

• Crusty Bread: The chewy crust and soft center are perfect for dipping into the warm chili broth.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh and crunchy Caesar salad offers a light contrast to the creamy chili.
• Cornbread: This sweet and soft bread is a classic side that balances the spices in the chili.
• Toppings: Try adding shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped avocado, or tortilla strips for extra flavor and texture.

HOW TO THICKEN WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

This white chicken chili recipe already uses mashed beans to create a thick and creamy texture. If you’d like to make it even thicker:

• Mix a spoonful of flour or cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the chili while simmering.
• Cook for 5 to 10 minutes after adding the thickener to help it blend.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can You Freeze White Chicken Chili?
Yes, white bean chicken chili freezes well. Let it cool completely and then store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to three months.

Why Is My White Chicken Chili Too Thin?
If your chili is watery, it may need more cooking time. You can also reduce the amount of broth or add a thickener like mashed beans or a flour-water mix.

Why Is It Called White Chili?
Unlike traditional chili made with red beans and tomato sauce, this version uses white beans and chicken, giving it a lighter color and flavor.

HOW TO REHEAT WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

To enjoy your chili again, follow these simple reheating tips:

• Microwave: Reheat single servings in the microwave for 2–3 minutes. Stir halfway through to heat evenly.
• Stovetop: For larger portions, reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.
• Slow Cooker: Set to low and reheat for 1–2 hours, depending on the amount.

NOTES AND TIPS FOR EASY MEAL PREP

Using cooked or rotisserie chicken can make this recipe even quicker to prepare. Simply shred and add to the pot after the aromatics are ready. This shortcut helps save time on busy days while still giving you a flavorful and filling meal.

Easy White Bean Chicken Chili Recipe

This White Bean Chicken Chili is a cozy, hearty meal that brings together juicy chicken, smooth white beans, and a delicious mix of spices. It's flavorful, easy to prepare, and a great source of protein and fiber, making it both nutritious and filling.

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Course: Lunch

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 265.2kcal

Author: Liora

Ingredients

• 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper diced (seeds may be removed for a milder flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken breasts
• 2 cans 15.5 oz each cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper to taste
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Hot sauce optional

Optional for thickening:

• 1/4 cup milk can be used to create a creamier texture
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For garnish:

• Freshly chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

• Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Once hot, add the diced onion and jalapeño peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
• Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
• Next, add the chicken to the pot, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, around 5 to 7 minutes.
• Stir in the cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika, making sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
• Pour in the drained cannellini beans and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
• Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors come together.
• After simmering, shred the chicken into small pieces using a fork or spoon. For a thicker texture, consider mashing some of the beans. For an even thicker consistency, mix cornstarch and milk in a small bowl, then stir the mixture into the chili.
• Finally, serve the chili in bowls, garnishing with sliced jalapeños, freshly chopped cilantro, or parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 265.2kcal | Carbohydrates: 6.8g | Protein: 28.6g | Fat: 13.8g | Saturated Fat: 5.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4.8g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 95.2mg | Sodium: 197.1mg | Potassium: 661.6mg | Fiber: 0.7g | Sugar: 2.6g | Vitamin A: 419.9IU | Vitamin C: 4.6mg | Calcium: 65.7mg | Iron: 1.2mg

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