Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: White Chicken Chili! There’s just something so hearty and delightful about a warm bowl of chili that fills my heart and my belly at the same time. I remember the first time I made it—my friends and I were in a bit of a gloomy mood, and I decided to whip this up on a whim. Before we knew it, our laughter filled the kitchen, and our spirits were as warm as the chili itself. Ever since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy nights in or casual get-togethers. Who knew that a simple combination of ingredients could bring so much joy?
Now, what makes this chili unique is not just its creamy texture, but the zing from the lime and the subtle kick from the spices. I simply can’t resist! Let’s dive into the flavors of this white chicken chili, and I’ll show you just how easy it is to make.
What’s in White Chicken Chili?
Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish so special:
Olive Oil: This is our base, providing a rich flavor and a healthy fat. You can use extra virgin if you want to go a notch above.
Onion: The diced onion adds a sweet and savory depth to the chili. I like to use yellow onions for a more rounded flavor.
Garlic: I mean, who can say no to garlic? It gives that fantastic aroma and delicious taste—three cloves is just the right amount!
Ground Cumin: Cumin adds warmth and earthiness to the board. It’s a staple spice in many dishes that I can’t get enough of!
Chili Powder: This adds a lovely zing and depth. You can whet your appetite with mild or go for a spicier variety if that’s your jam.
Smoked Paprika: Oh, the smokiness! This gives the chili its unique twist. It pairs perfectly with the chicken!
Chicken Broth: A good quality chicken broth acts as the backbone of the chili. Homemade is wonderful, but store-bought works just as well, especially if you’re in a pinch.
White Beans: These legumes not only bring creaminess but also pack in protein for a healthy meal. I often use Great Northern or Cannellini.
Corn: Sweet, juicy corn brings in a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness.
Cooked, Shredded Chicken: I often opt for rotisserie chicken—it’s easy and packed with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love saving a bit of time?
Heavy Cream or Sour Cream: This is what gives the chili its creamy goodness; a dollop of sour cream can also add a tangy note.
Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice at the end adds brightness to the dish. Trust me on this—it’s a game changer!
Fresh Cilantro: For garnish! I love the freshness it adds.
Lime Wedges: For serving, because more lime is always welcome in my book!
Is White Chicken Chili Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question about comfort food! This White Chicken Chili is actually a healthy option, especially when you consider the ingredients involved.
White Beans: These legumes are lovely little protein-packed powerhouses. They’re also high in fiber, helping you feel fuller longer.
Corn: Corn provides additional vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C. Plus, who doesn’t love a little sweetness?
Chicken: The shredded chicken adds lean protein, making this dish quite filling without being heavy.
On the flip side, if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might want to monitor the amount of heavy cream you use or opt for sour cream instead. Also, remember to watch your sodium intake if you’re using canned beans and broth, as they can be quite salty. So, while enjoying a hearty bowl of chili, do consider your portion sizes for a balanced meal!
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
– 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream (for a lighter option)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
This recipe serves about 6 people, so it’s perfect for a gathering—or some delicious leftovers!
How to Make White Chicken Chili?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the drained white beans and corn to the pot, followed by the shredded chicken. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the chili simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or sour cream and lime juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This White Chicken Chili is incredibly versatile. You can spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or add in bell peppers for some extra crunch. If you’re a cheese lover (who isn’t?), sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving. Serve it with warm crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some diced jalapeños for heat, or swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! Trust me, it will warm your soul just like it does mine. Feel free to share your experiences or favorite twists on this recipe in the comments—I love hearing from you! Happy cooking!
