why make this recipe
Healthy White Chicken Chili stands out as a delicious option that is not only hearty but also packed with protein and flavor. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy beans, and zesty spices to create a warming meal that is perfect for any time of the year. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting bowl of chili without compromising on health. The use of cannellini beans and chicken broth makes it lighter while still being filling, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
how to make Healthy White Chicken Chili
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need to gather your ingredients and follow a few simple steps. The cooking process is straightforward, so anyone can create this creamy and flavorful chili in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add the shredded chicken, cannellini beans, diced green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and let it simmer on low for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
how to serve Healthy White Chicken Chili
Serve Healthy White Chicken Chili hot in a bowl. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. If you enjoy toppings, consider adding shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch and brightens the dish.
how to store Healthy White Chicken Chili
To store any leftovers, let the chili cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Healthy White Chicken Chili
- For added depth of flavor, use homemade chicken broth if possible.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; you can add more chili powder for extra heat.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat version of your preferred dairy.
variation
If you want to change things up, consider adding corn or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor. You can also swap out cannellini beans for black beans for a different taste. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with extra beans or veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken. Just cook it first in the pot with the onions and garlic until it’s no longer pink, then shred it and proceed with the recipe.
Is this chili spicy?
The chili is mildly spicy due to the green chiles. If you prefer no spice, you can omit them or use mild salsa instead.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Add the heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
Healthy White Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add the shredded chicken, cannellini beans, diced green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and let it simmer on low for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.