Name: White Chicken Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion (diced); 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cans great Northern beans (14 oz each, drained); 2 cans mild green chiles (4 oz each, with juices); 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced); 1 cup corn kernels; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup sour cream

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This White Chicken Chili is the perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. Packed with protein and flavor, it offers a creamy texture that everyone will love. Not only is it healthier than traditional chili, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re serving it on game day or enjoying it as a family meal, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes of total prep and cook time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Healthy Ingredients: This chili is made with lean chicken breasts and nutrient-rich beans for a wholesome meal.

Creamy Texture: The addition of sour cream creates a rich and satisfying consistency without excess calories.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at parties; it’s perfect for any occasion.
Kid-Friendly Flavor: Mild green chiles and spices create a delicious taste that’s not too spicy, making it great for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this White Chicken Chili, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board

Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Provides enough space to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables and chicken for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chili

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion (diced)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
2 cups chicken broth

2 (14-ounce cans) great Northern beans (drained)
2 (4-ounce cans) mild green chiles (with juices)
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)

1 cup corn kernels
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

⅔ cup sour cream

How to Make White Chicken Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the onions and cook for about 4 minutes until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, great Northern beans, green chiles (with juices), diced chicken, corn, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce to low heat, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream

In a small bowl, add the sour cream.
Carefully pour about ½ cup of hot chili into the sour cream and mix well until combined.

Pour this mixture back into the pot of chili and stir thoroughly to ensure everything is mixed together.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy White Chicken Chili!

How to Serve White Chicken Chili

Serving White Chicken Chili can be as creative and varied as your taste buds desire. This dish pairs wonderfully with a range of toppings and sides that enhance its creamy, flavorful profile.

Topping Suggestions

Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños bring the spice.
Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack creates a deliciously rich layer on top.

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili perfectly and adds healthy fats.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances the creaminess.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy texture, add crushed tortilla chips right before serving.

Accompaniment Ideas

Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory chili, making it a satisfying combination.
Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a heartier meal option.

How to Perfect White Chicken Chili

To make your White Chicken Chili even more delightful, consider these simple tips. They can elevate your dish from good to great!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quicker prep, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor.
Experiment with Beans: While great Northern beans are classic, mixing in black beans or pinto beans can add new textures and tastes.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or use mild green chiles.

Incorporate Fresh Vegetables: Adding diced bell peppers or zucchini increases nutritional value and adds more texture to the dish.
Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for a while after cooking enhances its flavors as they meld together.
Garnish Wisely: Adding toppings right before serving retains their freshness and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every last bit of chili.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.

Cheesy Quesadillas: These crispy treats filled with cheese make an excellent dipping companion for chili.
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the chili.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with cilantro and lime zest adds aromatic freshness to your meal.

Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a nutritious side option packed with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

White Chicken Chili is a delicious dish, but there are some common mistakes that can detract from its flavor or texture. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid.

Skipping the seasoning: Not enough seasoning can lead to bland chili. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Using cold sour cream: Adding cold sour cream directly may cause curdling. Mix a small amount of hot chili into the sour cream first, then combine.
Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy results.
Ignoring bean quality: Using low-quality beans can affect texture and flavor. Opt for fresh or good-quality canned beans for the best results.

Not adjusting consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer. Adjust until you find your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing White Chicken Chili

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating White Chicken Chili

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.

Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this White Chicken Chili or need tips, check out these frequently asked questions!

What is White Chicken Chili?

White Chicken Chili is a creamy and flavorful twist on traditional chili made with chicken breasts, white beans, and mild green chilies.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While great Northern beans work well, you can substitute them with cannellini or navy beans based on your preference.

How spicy is White Chicken Chili?

This recipe is mild due to using mild green chilies. You can adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using spicier chiles if desired.

Can I make White Chicken Chili in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after flavors meld together overnight. Just store it properly in the fridge or freeze as instructed.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Chili is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone!