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White Bean Chicken Chili

White Bean Chicken Chili

White Bean Chicken Chili is a rich, comforting, and hearty dish combining tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a harmonious blend of spices. Perfect for chilly days, this cozy one-pot meal delivers balanced nutrition and fantastic flavor with simple ingredients, ideal for family dinners and meal prep.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded

Beans & Vegetables

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp lime juice, fresh

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Diced avocado

Instructions

  1. Prep and Sauté Aromatics: Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced or shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine with the aromatics. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside but not fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the upcoming spices.
  3. Add Beans, Chiles, and Liquids: Stir in the drained white beans and canned green chiles. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits for extra flavor. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  4. Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, uncovered. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the chili.
  5. Finish with Freshness: Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices for your desired balance.

Notes

  • Use canned white beans rinsed well to reduce sodium and speed up preparation.
  • Chicken thighs provide a juicier chili, while chicken breasts create a leaner dish.
  • For enhanced aroma, toast cumin and oregano lightly in the pot before adding liquids.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it tender; add it early but simmer gently.
  • For creamier texture, blend a portion of the chili using an immersion blender without losing chunkiness.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: White Bean Chicken Chili, comfort food, one pot meal, chili recipe, healthy dinner, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free